By Amb. Monyeazor Oluebube Sunday
ABA — It was a day of unity, culture and renewed hope for the people of Item as the Item Development Association (IDA), Aba Branch, held its annual Day celebration on Friday, November 6, 2026 at the College of Health School, Aba*
The event brought together sons and daughters of Item living in Aba, community leaders, women and youths, in a colourful gathering filled with traditional music, cultural displays, and warm fellowship. It was more than a celebration — it was a homecoming of ideas and a reaffirmation of love for Item land.
Speaking at the event, Hon. Karibe Ojigwe commended the Aba Branch for its unity, discipline and commitment to the development of Item. He described the IDA as a strong pillar of community development, noting that associations like this have kept the spirit of brotherhood alive among Item people in the diaspora.
Hon. Ojigwe, who is aspiring to represent Bende Federal Constituency in 2027 under the NDC, used the occasion to restate his vision for a more developed and united Bende — a vision built on leadership, mentorship and service to the people.
The high point of the day was his pledge of support for the ongoing Civic Centre Project of the Association. Hon. Ojigwe promised to stand with the Aba Branch and support the project to completion, describing the Civic Centre as a legacy project that will serve as a meeting point, a centre for empowerment, and a symbol of what Item people can achieve when they work together.
> “A people that build together, grow together. This Civic Centre is not just a building, it is a home for our unity, our culture and our future. I am proud to identify with this project and I pledge my full support to see it completed,” Hon. Ojigwe said.
Hon. Ojigwe also used the opportunity to remind Nde Item in Aba of the need to go and get their Permanent Voter’s Cards (PVCs) and to vote massively in the forthcoming general election. He stressed that Item cannot afford to sit on the sidelines, noting that the PVC is the only power every citizen has to choose leaders who will truly serve them.
> “Your PVC is your voice, your power, and your future. I urge every son and daughter of Item in Aba — go and get your PVC, keep it safe, and come out massively to vote in the forthcoming general election. If we want the Bende we dream of, we must vote for it,” he charged.
His pledge and charge were met with loud applause and appreciation from members, who described him as a man who does not just talk, but acts.
The leadership of the IDA, Aba Branch, thanked Hon. Ojigwe for honouring their invitation and for his generous support, praying for God’s blessing upon his political journey and his aspiration for Bende Federal Constituency.
The event ended with presentations, merriment and group photographs — with a renewed sense of purpose among Item sons and daughters to continue building their community.