Okija Series

The People Moving (Wall 1)

In Okija, where tradition runs deep and history leaves its mark on the land, the first mural of this 16-wall project stands as both a tribute and a reminder. More than a depiction of the past, it carries it forward, ensuring the stories, faces, and legacy of Anambra remain unmistakable and unshaken.

At the forefront, a king steps forward—crowned in wisdom, draped in regality, the living embodiment of leadership. Behind him, a procession of chiefs follows, each adorned in resplendent fabrics, bearing the weight of generations. Their presence is commanding, a testament that in Igbo culture, power is not merely inherited but upheld through legacy, honour, and service. Every detail—beaded crowns, embroidered robes, gilded staffs—carries the echoes of dynasties that shaped this land. Each symbol, each pattern whispers of ceremonies held under the watchful gaze of the ancestors.

Above them, an omniscient, unblinking eye watches. Ancient yet eternal, it is time itself, a silent witness to the rise and fall of empires, to the resilience of a people who refuse to be forgotten. It is the eye of history, bearing witness to those who have shaped their destiny through ingenuity and tradition.

This mural is a declaration. A revival. It is history in motion, culture in color, a testament that Anambra’s legacy is alive, unshaken, and forever rising.

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Ijele (Wall 2)

Ijele: The King of Spirits

In the sacred groves where sunlight barely touches the ground, the ancestors whisper of one spirit greater than all—Ijele. Not just a masquerade, but a kingdom on legs.

They say Ijele was sculpted in the realm between earth and spirit, by the hands of gods who stitched together beauty, terror, and majesty. Towering over men, with a crown that brushes the sky, Ijele does not walk like the others. It arrives like a prophecy. Only in moments that truly matter—when a king is crowned, when a great soul passes on, or when the land must be reminded of its pride—does Ijele descend.

It takes an entire village to prepare it. Thirty-six people to build it. A sacred silence to dress it. And when it finally steps out, adorned with a miniature village on its head, its body telling stories in symbols and color—the world stands still.

Children hush. Elders weep. Drums fall into a trance.

Because Ijele is not merely seen—it is experienced. A moving shrine. A spirit palace. The living throne of the ancestors. They say when Ijele dances, even the trees lean in to watch. Because in that moment, the land remembers its greatness. The people remember their power. And the gods remember they are not forgotten.

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Umuna Move (Wall 3)

“Umunna Move" is a vibrant celebration of Igbo cultural heritage, capturing the essence of communal unity and joy through the dynamic movements of traditional dancers. The mosaic-like composition, rich with swirling patterns and bold colors, reflects the rhythmic energy and synchronized grace of the dancers as they perform in unison.

Each figure, adorned in colorful, intricate attire, symbolizes the spirit of Umunna— the extended family and community that forms the foundation of Igbo society. The warm, earthy tones and radiant gold background evoke the life-giving energy of the sun, under which these cultural dances have been performed for generations. 

This piece serves as a homage to the enduring traditions that continue to bind the Igbo people together, celebrating the dance as a powerful expression of identity and cultural continuity.

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Izaga (Wall 4)

The Spirit of Izaga

They say that long ago, before time wore names and rivers bore bridges, there lived a great spirit in the heart of Anambra. This spirit had no form, only rhythm—its voice was thunder, its footsteps were drumbeats, and its breath stirred the leaves into dance.

The people called this spirit Izaga.

Izaga was a guardian—of secrets, of culture, of the invisible threads that bind the living to the ancestors. When the world tilted into chaos and forgotten ways began to fade, Izaga descended through the veil between worlds, donning a body of color, cloth, and carved wood.

Masked and magnificent, Izaga walked through the villages—silent, powerful, watching. Its dance was a warning. Its presence, a blessing. It spun to call down rain. It stomped to awaken memory. It leapt to scare away those who would dishonor the land.

Only the chosen could wear the spirit. And even then, they disappeared for seven days before returning with eyes that had seen the ancestors, feet that moved with ancient knowledge.

To this day, when the Izaga masquerade emerges, draped in layered fabric and crowned with ancestral signs, the air changes. Time folds. And the living remember who they are.

Because Izaga does not dance for show—it dances to remind.

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The Drummers (Wall 5)

This piece captures the powerful essence of Igbo culture, focusing on the vibrant energy of men playing drums in unison. This dynamic scene celebrates the central role of music and rhythm in Igbo life, where drumming serves as both a form of communication and a vital part of ceremonies and communal gatherings. 

The mosaic style of the artwork, with its intricate patterns and bold colors, reflects the intensity and joy of the moment. Each figure, adorned in traditional attire, is portrayed with a deep sense of pride and cultural identity, their movements synchronized with the powerful beats of the drums. The background, filled with rich, earthy tones and abstract shapes, evokes the deep connection between the drummers, their instruments, and the land of their ancestors. 

This piece not only celebrates the art of drumming but also the spirit of community and cultural continuity that defines the Igbo people.

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Agaba (Wall 6)

Agaba: The Beast That Walks

When the wind howls through the forest and animals scatter without warning, the elders know: Agaba is near.

Born of rage and shadow, Agaba is not called—it summons itself.

A beast among spirits. A creature too wild to be tamed, too ancient to be forgotten. No music commands its steps. No chant softens its fury. When Agaba comes, it storms into the village like a whirlwind of chaos—teeth bared, fists clenched, eyes burning with ancestral fire.

They say Agaba was carved from the wrath of betrayed gods. That it sleeps in caves of bone, wrapped in cloth soaked with the screams of those who disrespected the old ways. Its face, grotesque. Its movements, violent. Its silence, terrifying.

Children are hidden. Animals are tied down. Even the bravest warriors keep their distance.

Agaba does not dance for joy. It charges. It stomps. It hunts.

When the drums beat low and heavy, and dust rises from the earth in spirals, don’t ask questions. Don’t stand in its path. Just drop your gaze and pray the spirit passes you by.

Because Agaba is not here to entertain. It is here to remind the living what fear feels like.

It is here to enforce the law of the ancestors.

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GMD (Wall 7)

Ernest Nnaemeka Azudialu Obiejesi—known as GMD—is a visionary leader and industrialist. This mural captures him in a moment of reflection, symbolizing ambition and progress.

Seated in his private jet, his gaze reflects a man always looking ahead. The bold patterns and rich textures blend modern success with cultural heritage, illustrating his journey from humble beginnings to greatness. As the driving force behind this project, his vision shapes every detail—a legacy of resilience, achievement, and forward thinking.

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IDEMILI (Wall 8)

"Idemili" is a powerful and breathtaking tribute to the revered water goddess of the same name, who is believed to dwell in the Idemili River of Anambra State. In Igbo tradition, Idemili is known as a guardian of pregnant women, mothers, and infants, and a divine benefactor who blesses the childless with fertility and safe childbirth.

She is also closely associated with the sacred python—an emblem of peace, protection, and divine presence. In many Igbo communities, pythons are never harmed, as they are believed to embody the spirit of the goddess herself.

In this stunning mosaic-style mural, Idemili is portrayed as a regal, otherworldly figure with a snake-like lower body, gracefully seated on a throne of seashells and coral beneath the ocean's surface. This composition symbolizes her divine authority and the life-giving power of water. The artwork blends rich, saturated colors and intricate patterns to evoke both her mystical beauty and commanding presence.

As with every mural in this collection, Nsibidi symbols—ancient Igbo ideograms once used to convey sacred knowledge and beautify homes, clothing, and bodies—have been thoughtfully incorporated. These elements deepen the cultural resonance of the piece while connecting the past to the present.

"Idemili" stands as a vibrant celebration of Igbo heritage, honoring the strength, grace, and nurturing spirit of a goddess who remains deeply woven into the spiritual and cultural fabric of her people.

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Agu (Wall 9)

"Agu (Leopard)" is a striking visual celebration of strength, agility, and ancestral power, embodied in the majestic figure of the leopard—a revered symbol in Igbo cosmology. Rendered in an intricate mosaic style, the leopard is adorned with rich, vibrant patterns that echo the complexity of the natural world and the spirit realm.

Poised gracefully atop a rock in a golden savannah landscape, the leopard commands attention, its body shimmering with motifs reminiscent of Igbo beadwork, textiles, and traditional symbolism. The surrounding elements—acacia trees, tall grasses, and swirling earth tones—create a harmonious backdrop that evokes the sacred bond between the animal and its environment.

In Igbo tradition, the leopard, or Agu, is more than a creature of the wild; it is a totem of kingship, courage, and silent power. This piece channels that energy, blending ancient symbolism with a contemporary visual language that speaks to resilience, pride, and the enduring legacy of Igbo culture.

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Enyi: The Guardian of Okija (Wall 10)

This piece pays tribute to the elephant (Enyi in Igbo language), the insignia of Okija, Anambra. Known as the Land of Elephants, Okija takes pride in its association with the mighty animal, embodying strength, prestige, and greatness. The town’s mantra—Okija Enyi—reflects the cultural connection. The town prides itself on being as big as an elephant.

This artwork captures the grandeur of Enyi Okija, illuminated under the moonlit sky. The elephant is the largest animal in the bush. In Igbo culture, its magnitude is symbolically associated with that of God. The respect for this magnificent beast is seen in the Ozo title system, the Okike (elephant tusks) are used in initiation rites, Ofala festivals, and other major ceremonies, signifying wealth and status.

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GMD (Wall 11)

Our client, Ernest Nnaemeka Azudialu Obiejesi—known to many as GMD—is a true son of Okija, Anambra. As Chairman and CEO of Nestoil, his impact extends beyond the corporate world through the Obijackson Foundation, which supports healthcare, education, and community development.

This artwork, drawn from a picture of him standing and giving a public presentation, as he often does, captures his essence as a visionary and a man of action, always inspiring and making a difference.

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GED (Wall 12)

This painting is a tribute to Barrister Mrs. Nnenna Obiejesi, the wife of our client, GMD. A symbol of grace, strength, and partnership, she and her husband are the true definition of a power couple, building and achieving so much together. Our client is a family man through and through; her portrait in this collection reflects the love and unity they share.

Beyond her role as a wife and partner, Barrister Mrs. Nnenna Obiejesi (GED) is a distinguished lawyer and business leader. She joined Nestoil in 1991 and has played a key role in its success. As a member of the Nigerian Bar Association and an associate of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, UK, she exemplifies excellence and dedication.

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Obi (Wall 13)

Before colonial influence, Igbo architecture was defined by its practicality and cultural symbolism. The predominant structures were round mud houses (ulo aja oto) with thatched roofs (aju or atani), built using natural materials like bamboo, palm fronds, and raffia.

At the center of the Igbo pre-colonial architectural landscape stood the Obi, the most important structure within an Igbo compound. More than a building, it was the spiritual and social heart of the household—a place where elders gathered, guests were received, and key decisions were made. The Obi housed the head of the family’s altar, reinforcing its role as a sacred space for ancestral reverence.

In Igbo history, the strength of a man is well demonstrated in what he has in his Obi. For a man who is a hunter, you will see things like the skin or skulls of animals he has killed. The first son always inherits his Father's Obi, and the rest of the other sons go out to build their own Obi.

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Enyi Okija 2 (Wall 14)

In this portrayal, the elephant stands not just as a symbol of power—but as a crowned bearer of ancestral knowledge.

Adorned in intricate patterns and sacred symbols, this piece honors the spiritual weight the elephant carries in Igbo cosmology. Every marking, every color, every curve of its body speaks to centuries of reverence. Not just for its size—but for what it stands for: wisdom, protection, and divine authority.

Here, the elephant does not move—it holds. It holds memory. It holds space. It holds the gaze of a people who see themselves in its presence.

Surrounded by Nsibidi glyphs and crowned by a sky of sacred gold, this is not just an animal—it’s a guide. A guardian. A reminder that identity, when rooted in heritage, does not fade. It only grows more radiant.

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Agu (Wall 15)

This artwork captures the leopard (Agu)  in all its glory, seated with a commanding presence. While its natural spots are distinct, they are reimagined in vibrant colors, blending tradition with artistic expression to celebrate Agu, the Igbo symbol of leadership and greatness.

Agu translates to “leopard” in Igbo and is a revered symbol of power, strength, and agility. Deeply woven into Igbo culture, the leopard represents leadership and guardianship, often associated with those who protect and rule.

The ancient Igbo regarded the leopard as their totemic animal, embodying boldness, courage, and regal presence. Igbo proverbs reflect this admiration, with sayings like “Agu na-eche mba” (The leopard that guards the city) and “O me ka agu” (He who acts like the leopard). The influence of the leopard extends to attire, with the prestigious Isiagu fabric, worn as a mark of authority and pride. Similarly, the Okpu Agu (leopard cap) is a distinctive status symbol.

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Legendary Igbo Heroes (Wall 16 & 17)

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We dedicated a wall to honouring some of the influential figures from Igbo land—leaders, visionaries, and pioneers who have shaped Nigeria and beyond. These icons have left a lasting impact in their respective fields, embodying excellence, resilience, and cultural pride. Below is a breakdown of their legacies, presented left to right as they appear on the wall.

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1. Chinua Achebe (1930–2013)

Born in Ogidi, Anambra State, Achebe was a literary giant who revolutionized African storytelling and contributed greatly to redefining how the world sees Africa. His groundbreaking novel, Things Fall Apart (1958), remains one of the most influential books on Igbo identity and colonial history. Beyond that, he authored classics like Arrow of God, No Longer at Ease, and Anthills of the Savannah, each capturing the complexities of African societies and postcolonial struggles.

 Achebe received numerous literary honours, including the Man Booker International Prize (2007) and the Commonwealth Poetry Prize (1972), among others. His writing continues to shape global conversations on African literature and culture.

2. Peter Obi (b. 1961)

Hailing from Onitsha, Anambra State, Peter Obi is a respected businessman and politician known for his pragmatic leadership and economic reforms. He served as the Governor of Anambra State (2006–2014), during which he prioritized education, infrastructure, and fiscal responsibility, transforming the state's financial health. Before politics, he built a successful career in banking and business. Obi’s emphasis on transparency, good governance, and investment in human capital has made him a key voice in Nigerian politics, inspiring a new wave of civic engagement.

3. Kanu Nwankwo (b. 1976)

A football icon and philanthropist, Kanu won numerous international titles, including Olympic gold (1996), and played for top European clubs. His Kanu Heart Foundation, established in 2000, has provided free life-saving surgeries for children with heart conditions. He is from Imo State.

4. Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu (1933–2011)

A military officer and leader of the Republic of Biafra (1967–1970) during the Nigerian Civil War, Ojukwu remains a symbol of Igbo resilience and self-determination. His leadership in one of Nigeria’s most defining periods cemented his legacy as a bold and strategic figure from Anambra State.

5. Nnamdi Azikiwe (1904–1996)

An Igbo man from Anambra State, he was Nigeria’s first President and a key figure in the country’s independence movement. Known as the Zik of Africa, he championed nationalism, education, and Pan-African unity, laying the foundation for Nigeria’s political evolution.

6. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (b. 1954)

A globally respected economist, Okonjo-Iweala made history as the first African and first woman to serve as the Director-General of the World Trade Organization (since 2021). As Nigeria’s Minister of Finance (2003–2006, 2011–2015), she spearheaded economic reforms and secured debt relief for the country. She hails from Delta State and continues to inspire leadership in governance and finance.

7. Dora Akunyili (1954–2014)

Born in Anambra State, she was the fearless Director-General of NAFDAC (2001–2008), leading the fight against counterfeit drugs. Her integrity and dedication to public health saved countless lives and set a standard for good governance. She later served as Minister of Information (2008–2010), where she championed Nigeria’s rebranding efforts.

8. Chuba Okadigbo (1941–2003)

A brilliant political thinker, Okadigbo was a former Senate President (1999–2000) known for his eloquence and intellect. His impact on Nigerian politics was profound, as he was a strong advocate for democracy and governance reforms. He hailed from Anambra State.

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