Abuja: Chief Tony Ndanenu, Director‑General of the Ashaka Carnival and an APC chieftain, has stressed that peace and unity are indispensable for community development, urging indigenes of Ashaka in Delta State to embrace harmony for collective progress.
Reflecting on the just‑concluded Ashaka Carnival, Ndanenu told reporters that beyond the funfair, the festival serves to reunite Ashaka sons and daughters from home and abroad, preserve cultural heritage, and promote development.
He highlighted the Ulege and Odogwu dances—traditions over a century old—as central features of the carnival, describing the event as the pride of Delta and the state’s largest annual gathering. He called on local, state, and federal governments to support the carnival as a cultural and tourism asset.
Ndanenu emphasized that while different quarters may showcase their dances and masquerades, the carnival remains a unifying platform. “We are all one; there is no point in segregation. Ashaka remains united, and we call for greater participation,” he said.
He lamented low turnout at some performances and urged full community involvement to ensure a stronger outing in December 2026. He welcomed constructive criticism but cautioned against actions that could undermine the carnival’s objectives.
The DG assured that feedback from the 2025 edition would be reviewed by the Central Working Committee to improve future events. He expressed gratitude to Chief Mike Ubogu, Chief Chris Ogwu, and other supporters for their contributions, noting that awards were presented to distinguished leaders, including a posthumous honor for Dominic Abanum, a legend of the Odogwu dance.Okwa Obi Aniefor was conferred the title of Eze Odogwu, while Eddy Onokoka was named all‑time Eze Igwe, both receiving tokens of appreciation.