NATASHA RECEIVED DELEGATION FROM EBIRA PEOPLE’S ASSOCIATION, BAGS LETTER OF APPRECIATION AND DECORATED WITH TRADITIONAL ATTIRE.
By Hamza Lamisi
The apex umbrella body of the people of Ebira descendants “Ebira People’s Association (EPA) sent a delegation to Barr. Natasha Hadiza Akpoti in Abuja where they declared unalloyed support for the humanitarian service of the daughter of the soil – especially with regards to her rare courage to fight for the revival of Ajaokuta Steel company.
The delegation was led by the Odeyiani of Anebira, AMAC FCT Abuja, His Highness Alh. Talib Babamba. Other personalities among the delegation include;
1. Adayi Joseph Anivasa, IWA National President and President of Ebira Elders Forum, Abuja.
2. Alh. A. K. Usman, Secretary General of EPA FCT Chapter.
3. Col. PA Zubair (Rtd), EPA Member.
4. Amb. Aishat Moh’d Danni, EPA Acting Chairman Abuja.
5. Alh. Muhammed A. Bello, EPA Coordinator.
6. Usman Okinobanyi A., EPA Member.
7. Mall. Zaeed Wakili Abdulmumuni, Onoba of Ebira in Gwagwa.
The meeting proper began with opening prayers by the Odeyiani who showered prayers on the late humanitarian icon Dr Jimoh Akpoti. He equally rained prayers on Natasha Hadiza who he described as a golden asset to Ebira nation and humanity entirely. The Odeyiani Alh. Babamba mentioned that Natasha is a female but God has chosen her to be the light, the more reason everybody should support her and pray for her. “EPA has come here today to appreciate her immeasurable efforts and pledge our support for her selfless courses for the people. We would have pulled out in number for this meeting but we have choosed to limit it to this delegation while we plan a flamboyant gathering some other times.” He further stated that the last presentation Natasha made on the floor the House of Representatives is enough reason for all Ebira people to massively come out and support Natasha to achieve Ajaokuta. He pleaded with all Ebira Elders never to back off Natasha in prayers and guidance.
In his contribution, Mr. Anivasa recalled the selfless services rendered by late Dr Akpoti before his death and encouraged Natasha to continue on the reputable path. He enjoined her to remain focused on the Ajaokuta revival struggle and God shall bring it to actualization. Amb. Aishat also made contributions in similar vein. She urged Natasha to shun the nay sayers and continue with her developmental strides. “Everybody cannot speak good of you but one with majority is the strongest. You shall see the joyful end of your struggle soon. Always relate with EPA and we shall stand by you always”.
Alh. Muhammed Bello appreciated the kind of courage Natasha has shown which deserve commendation and support by all. Col. Zubair dwelled on the presentation Natasha made at the National Assembly which he referred to as articulate, detailed and well researched one. He further stated “before you, there were people who had advocated for the revival of Ajaokuta Steel company but yours came in a unique way, deeply rooted in research and with absolute focus and determination without compromise”. Mr. Usman Okinobanyi described Natasha as a national pride that must be held at high esteem. He appealed that Ebira people must realise that Natasha is a gift to them and they must protect her against odds. Also, Mr Zaeed added that Natasha has sown good and she must reap good while referencing the from the common saying that he who sows good reaps good.
In her response, Barr. Natasha Akpoti appreciated EPA and the entire Ebira people for the love and supports. “The story of Ajaokuta began with the kind of pain I feel when I see our jobless youths, poor parents and the social vices in the land. I must tell you that am not going to give up. If Ajaokuta is the only thing I can achieve for the people before I leave this world, let it be” Natasha reinstated. She went further to say that Ajaokuta will not just work but it must work for the people.
In her conclusion, Natasha said “I appreciate you all once again. Nobody is a fountain of knowledge, always call me to order any time you find me dafaulted. You are my immediate people and I count much on your support and guidance. Its about us and the people, not about me alone. God bless you.
Before the meeting ended, a letter of appreciation was presented on-behalf of the EPA President General, Dr. MA Adeiza and the Odeyiani decorated Natasha with colourful Ebira attire as a symbol of honour.
Credit: Hamza Lamisi.