Oba – A Town of Heritage and Resilience
History, Monarchy, and Community
Oba is a major town in Anambra State, situated just 7 km south of Onitsha along the old Owerri–Onitsha road. Its motto, “Ife di n’Oba” (treasures abound in Oba), speaks to its ancient prosperity.
Tradition holds that Oba was founded by Oba Ezechidebelu Okehi, whose nine sons established the town’s nine villages. Another legend ties the town to a mythical bird, Okpoko, which either birthed or carried the founder to the site – hence the royal title Eze Okpoko.
Oba was an early education hub, producing the second Igbo university graduate, Dr. Enoch Ifediora Oli, who in 1946 founded Merchants of Light School – the first private secondary school in Eastern Nigeria.
“Ife di n’Oba” – Treasures Abound in Oba
/ Oba Motto
Royal Heritage
The Eze Okpoko Dynasty
HRM Igwe Augustine Chinedu Emelobe
Eze Okpoko II of Oba
The first modern king was Igwe Peter Chukwuma Ezenwa (Eze Okpoko I), who reigned for 42 years until 2018. On 15th March 2025, HRM Igwe Augustine Chinedu Emelobe was installed as Eze Okpoko II, following traditional rites.
The Igwe serves as the custodian of Oba’s traditions, a unifying figure for the nine villages, and a representative of the town in the broader Anambra State.
A Legacy of Unity
Oba Progressive Union (OPU)
The Oba Progressive Union (OPU) is the apex socio‑cultural organisation of the people of Oba, dedicated to fostering unity, development, and the preservation of our rich cultural heritage.
Our Mission
OPU exists to promote the welfare of Oba indigenes at home and in the diaspora, to drive community development projects, and to ensure that the voice of Oba is heard in the broader Anambra State and Nigerian context.
Key Initiatives
- Community Development: Supporting infrastructure, education, and healthcare projects across Oba.
- Youth & Skills Empowerment: Providing training and opportunities for the next generation.
- Cultural Preservation: Promoting Oba’s traditions, language, and values.
- Diaspora Engagement: Connecting Oba sons and daughters worldwide.
Our Vision
To build a modern, prosperous, and united Oba where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive – guided by the wisdom of our elders and the energy of our youth.
ENGR. ANTHONY UZO EJIOFOR (EZEUGONNA)
President General, Oba Progressive Union
Through the Years
Key Moments in Oba’s History
Pre‑Colonial Era
Founding of Oba by Oba Ezechidebelu Okehi; establishment of the nine villages.
1946
Dr. Enoch Ifediora Oli founds Merchants of Light School – the first private secondary school in Eastern Nigeria.
1967–1970
During the Nigerian Civil War, Oba becomes a final Biafran stronghold after the fall of Onitsha.
1991
Idemili South LGA is created with Oba as its first headquarters (later moved to Ojoto).
2018
Igwe Peter Chukwuma Ezenwa (Eze Okpoko I) passes away after a 42‑year reign.
15th March 2025
HRM Igwe Augustine Chinedu Emelobe is installed as Eze Okpoko II.
Our Committees
Driving Oba’s Development
These committees are the backbone of our community’s progress – each one dedicated to a critical area of town life, from health and security to youth empowerment, skills acquisition, and environmental sustainability. Their work ensures that Oba continues to grow as a vibrant, well‑governed, and prosperous town for all.
OBA Environment & Sanitation Committee
