Ebonyi Group Demands Renaming of Streets with Anambra Names in Abakaliki

July 25, 2025

By Ayinde Adeleke

A UK-based Ebonyi business mogul, Azubike Daniel, popularly known as Zubitech Global, has petitioned the Ebonyi State government to rename streets in Abakaliki, the state capital, that bear names related to Anambra State.

This development comes after the Anambra State government renamed a major street in the state from “Abakaliki Street” to “Club Street,” sparking controversy among residents.

The renaming of the street in Anambra State was defended by the government, citing the street’s significant development over the years and its current status as a hub for clubs, hotels, and recreational centers.

However, Chief Peter Uzodinma, who named the street in the 1950s, expressed disappointment over the decision, stating that it was an effort to erase his contributions to the area.

Chief Uzodinma, an indigene of Ebonyi State’s Izzi Local Government Area, narrated how he purchased a plot of land in Anambra State in the 90s, which has since developed into the Abakaliki/Club Street.

The Ebonyi Indigenous Group in Diaspora (EIGD), led by Zubitech Global, argues that the renaming of streets in Abakaliki that bear Anambra-related names is necessary to reciprocate the gesture.

The group listed several streets in Abakaliki that they demand be renamed, including Awka Street, Onitsha Street, and Nnobi Street, among others.

“What’s good for the goose is also good for the gander,” Zubitech Global said in a statement. The business mogul recounted the historical tensions between the people of Ebonyi and Anambra States, citing instances of alleged maltreatment and underrating of Ebonyi indigenes by Anambra indigenes. He also mentioned the recent killing of no fewer than 13 Ebonyi indigenes in Anambra State.

The group insists that unless the street in Anambra State retains its original name, “Abakaliki Street,” all streets in Abakaliki with Anambra-related names must be changed. Residents of Anambra State have shared their thoughts on the renaming of Abakaliki Street, with some supporting the decision and others opposing it.

One resident said, “I feel the renaming was necessary because when people hear Abakaliki street, they would probably see the street as occupied by classless individuals, but the renaming to Club street clearly identifies that the street is full of clubs and anyone who wants to come around would know they’ll meet a lot of club houses.” Another resident, however, felt that the renaming was not an impressive development, stating that the man who named the street should be compensated and the street’s name retained to appreciate his efforts.