Sometime last week, I was around one of the popular junctions in my city, Aba, known as "Opobo Junction". Located at the outskirt of the city, this junction is always alive with activity, buzzing with energy from dawn to dusk. That's because it's an intersection that connects several major roads, making it a vital transportation hub.
This popular landmark links Aba/Ikot-Ekpene road, Aba/Opobo road, and Ehere road, providing easy access to various destinations. So, whether you're catching a ride or just passing through, Opobo Junction is a place that's hard to miss, especially now that it has gotten a fresh new look thanks to the reconstruction of the roundabout.
Just like every other roundabout in my city is adorned with a sculpture, Ehere Junction wasn't left out. Right at the center of the roundabout is a beautiful sculpture that features local musical instruments - Udu (pot drum), Igba (cylinder drum), Ekwe (slit drum) and Ogene (double handheld clapperless metal gong). This sculpture has no doubt, added a bit of cultural flair to the place.
But what caught my attention, though, was the name "Ehere Junction", displayed on the sculpture. From time immemorial, the junction has always been known as, and called "Opobo junction", and I was a bit curious about the change in name.
Perhaps, the name change is an effort to preserve the heritage of the local Ehere village of the Ngwá nation, where the junction is situated. Most probably, since the name "Opobo" originated from Rivers State. Hence, it's more or less a "foreign name", if you know what I mean. Hehehe.
Well, I really applaud them for that. In fact, the change couldn't have come at a better time than now that almost every part of the city is wearing a new look, thanks to the ongoing reconstruction.
Preserving our cultural heritage and traditional landmarks should be top priority.
Is there a junction that stands out in your city? Most especially one that showcases the cultural heritage of the people? I'd love to know.
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