The quest to promote better understanding and appreciation of local history has propelled Edo State Commissioner for Industry, Trade and Co-operatives, Afie Braimoh, to donate books on the history of Owan to secondary schools across the clan.
Afie Braimoh, daughter of Senator Yisa Braimoh of Ihievbe in Owan East Local Government Area of Edo State, himself an apostle of “cultural reawakening” among the younger generation, has bitten the bug and is set to take it a notch higher.
Ms Braimoh said the project is very dear to her, since she is certain it would cause a major paradigm shift in the propagation of Owan culture, history and other nuances.
She also added that the decision to donate the books to secondary schools in the Owan Federal Constituency was devoid of politics but to ensure that Owan language and cultural heritage are continually preserved for future generations instead of going to extinction.
According to her, “as an Owan daughter, it is also incumbent on me to ensure that the tradition, cultural heritage and language of my people do not go into extinction.
“To this end, I am donating books to sustain our heritage and culture in schools, helping our children learn our history and keep it alive in our society.”
To demonstrate the importance attached to this project, she has already activated steps in this regard, including setting up a small unit of eminent historians to source for suitable texts on Owan history.
Based on the unit’s work and the recommendation of “My Book of Owan Story” written by Elabor Agbebaku, which Afie has since autographed is waiting for distribution to selected schools in the locality.
The 80 page book is a compendium on Owan history; with 28 subtitles capturing the various phases of Owan metamorphosis into a modern entity.
Some chapters in the book provide vivid descriptions of the history, artefacts, culture, language, genealogy, inter tribal wars, migrations as well as the untold story of how the name “Owan” and Owan River came into existence.
Author of the book, Elabor Agbebaku, testified that the book, well researched and authoritative on Owan history, has enjoyed wide readership among the traditional and educated Owan elites, adding that the move by Ms Braimoh to propagate and preserve Owan history and culture, especially among the younger generation is a worthy cause that deserves support and commendation.
Prominent Owan citizens have hailed the Afie Braimoh initiative, describing it as “bold” and capable of rekindling interest in the study of Owan history as well as the preservation of the remnants of the rich Owan heritage
They also commended her uncommon grits and passion in the pursuit of her latest venture, regardless that she is threading an unfamiliar terrain, adding that they are willing to render all necessary support to ensure its success.
