Man drives across 13 countries, traces root to Nigeria

There was excitement, celebration, and cultural display in the Ebem Ohafia community in Abia State as Mr. Azubuike Onwuka, grandson of the late renowned academic, Prof. Uga Onwuka, traced his ancestral homeland after more than three decades away from home.

Azubuike, who was born to a Dutch mother and raised in the Netherlands, undertook the journey across Europe and Africa to reconnect with his roots and see first-hand the land of his forefathers.

He recalled that the historic expedition saw him drive through 13 countries – the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Spain, Morocco, Mauritania, Senegal, Guinea, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Togo, Benin Republic – before arriving in Ebem Ohafia, in Ohafia Local Governmrnt Area Abia State, Nigeria.

He said the remarkable road trip across two continents was a proof of his  “resilience, determination, and an enduring connection to ancestral heritage”.

At a reception in his honour, Azubuike added that his decision to embark on the challenging journey was inspired by a deep desire to reconnect with his paternal root.

He said, “Although I was born and raised in Europe, I always felt a strong connection to my father’s homeland and longed to experience the culture, history, and traditions of his people.

“My decision to travel by road was influenced by a dream I had and my passion for adventure, which motivated me to undertake this historic solo expedition from Europe to Africa”.

His arrival was greeted with jubilation by members of the Ebem Ohafia community, who turned out in large numbers to welcome him home.

The reception commenced with community leaders, youths, women, and well-wishers receiving him with prayers amidst excitement.

A colourful procession led by the famous Ohafia War Dance Group escorted him to the palace of the paramount ruler of Ebem Ohafia Ancient Kingdom, His Royal Highness Ezie Ukoha Kalu Ukoha, the Kpoke I of Ekeluogo Ebem Autonomous Community.

At the palace, Azubuike paid homage to the revered monarch and received royal blessings before proceeding to his family compound, where relatives, friends, and members of the community continued the celebrations.

In a statement issued by the Ebem Ohafia Development Union, EODU, the community described the homecoming as “a historic and emotional moment that demonstrated the enduring bond between Ebem sons and daughters in the diaspora and their ancestral homeland”.

The union commended the collective efforts of the Ezie Ebem-in-Council, EODU Central Executive Council, Ebem Youth Wing, traditional institutions, community leaders, and residents for organising a befitting reception for their son.

The successful homecoming, according to community leaders, reflects the values of unity, love, identity, and cultural pride that have continued to define Ebem Ohafia through generations.

Many residents described the event as historic, serving as a reminder that no matter how far one travels, home will always remain home.