The historic town of Abonnema in Akuku-Toru Local Government Area of Rivers State became a vibrant centre for cultural reflection and joyous celebration on December 29, 2025. The community gathered to mark the fifth edition of the late High Chief Dr Olu Benson Lulu-Briggs Day Cultural Celebration, an event famously known as Lulu’s Day.
A Father's Final Wish Fulfilled
Speaking at the ceremony, Chief Dumo Lulu-Briggs, the Paramount Head of the Oruwari Briggs War Canoe Houses of Abonnema, shared a poignant revelation. He disclosed that his father’s final desire was for his passing to act as a catalyst for unity. "He spoke through a friend who was over 90 years old that his death should be used to unite Abonnema and the entire Kalabari people," Chief Lulu-Briggs recounted. He proudly noted that this wish had materialized, stating, "If you look around today, that is exactly what has happened."
He reflected on a painful period of over four decades marked by internal conflicts that frayed the community's social fabric, leading some groups to withdraw from public affairs. "Today, the whole of Abonnema sits together," he declared with evident satisfaction. The presence of the king, the conferment of chieftaincy titles, and widespread happiness signified a new dawn of peace.
Sustaining a Legacy of Compassion and Service
Chief Dumo Lulu-Briggs painted a vivid portrait of his late father as a selfless legend whose life was anchored in faith and service. "He lived his life for others and sought God every day," he said, adding a powerful metaphor: "I would say he literally set himself on fire to keep the rest of us warm."
The annual remembrance, therefore, serves a dual purpose: to honour the memory of Dr Olu Benson Lulu-Briggs and to actively perpetuate his compassionate legacy. This includes concrete actions like supporting the sick, caring for the elderly, paying school fees, and providing food for the vulnerable, with special emphasis during festive seasons.
A Gathering of Dignitaries and Cultural Extravaganza
The fifth-anniversary celebration attracted a host of notable personalities, underscoring its significance. The high-profile attendees included:
- Dame Judith Amaechi, wife of a former Rivers State governor.
- The Amayanabo of Abonnema, His Royal Majesty King Disrael Gbobo II, Ekineye Owukori IX.
- Members of the Abonnema Council of Chiefs.
- Former Secretary to the Rivers State Government, Chief Dr Tammy Danagogo.
The event reached its colourful climax with a cultural dance competition featuring 13 energetic troupes. The performances were judged by a panel that included renowned Nollywood actor and cultural advocate, Hilda Dokubo. In a generous gesture, all participating groups received N200,000, while winners in categories like entertainment, coordination, and costume took home prizes worth up to N1 million.
The atmosphere in Abonnema was described as the best the town has experienced in modern times, a harmonious period deliberately nurtured from the community level down to individual households, echoing the peaceful era of the ancestors.
