In the summer of 1950, an important cultural visit took place between West Africa and British Guiana. This visit was made possible by Dr. Claude H. Denbow, President of the League of Colored Peoples in Georgetown, and Honorable John Carter, Secretary of the League. With support from other key figures in New York, they invited a young Igbo leader to British Guiana to strengthen the connection between Igbo and Caribbean people.
A Special Visitor: Eze A. Ogueri II
The visitor was Eze A. Ogueri II, a young Igbo chief from Obibi-Ezena in Owerri Province, Nigeria. He finished his studies at Adelphi College in New York and was about to start graduate studies in political science at Harvard University. His visit was more than a formal event—it was a way to show unity and shared history between the Igbo and Caribbean people.
His Background and Education
Eze A. Ogueri II came from a royal family. His grandfather, Ogueri Nwokoro I, was a respected leader in his community. Eze grew up learning about Igbo traditions, laws, and customs. He studied at St. Barth’s School in Enugu and later attended Umuahia Government College, one of Nigeria’s top schools. He was a bright student and won a government scholarship.
Before going to the U.S., Eze worked in journalism as a young reporter for the Associated Newspapers of Nigeria (Zik Press). He also reported on political events for a local radio station. After moving to the U.S., he became a well-known speaker in the Igbo student community, sharing his views on Nigerian independence and colonial rule.
The Meaning of His Visit
Eze’s visit was an exciting event for the League of Colored Peoples and the African-descended community in British Guiana. It highlighted the long connection between Igbo people and the Caribbean, shaped by migration and colonial history.
The Igbo people are known for their hard work, business skills, and political activism. Along with the Ibibio people, they make up a large part of southeastern Nigeria. Like many African and Caribbean communities, the Igbo also aimed for self-rule and progress.
During his visit, Eze met with leaders, scholars, and students. He spoke about self-determination, education, and the importance of unity among Igbo people. He also learned about the experiences of the local people and compared colonial policies in British Guiana and Nigeria.
Leadership and Responsibility
The title “Eze” means “king” in English. As the first son in a royal family, Eze had a great responsibility to his people. His leadership was not just a position—it was a duty.
Eze’s education at Harvard was not just for personal success. He wanted to use his knowledge to help Nigeria gain independence and improve the lives of his people. His dream was to bring change not only to Nigeria but also to the Igbo community worldwide.
A Visit to Remember
Eze A. Ogueri II’s visit to British Guiana left a strong impression on the people he met. His intelligence, confidence, and love for his culture inspired many. His visit reminded people that the Igbo and Caribbean communities were connected in their fight for freedom and equal rights.
The League of Colored Peoples saw this visit as an important step in building global Igbo unity. They believed that by linking Nigeria and the Caribbean, they could create a stronger voice for Black communities worldwide.
The seven days Eze spent in British Guiana were not just a historical event but a symbol of shared dreams and struggles. His journey showed that Igbo and Caribbean people were connected through history, culture, and the desire for a better future. Even after his visit, his story remained an inspiration, proving that heritage and history unite people across continents.
References
- HathiTrust Digital Library. (n.d.). Seven amazing days: An African in British Guiana.
- Ukpuru. (2016, December 11). Seven amazing days: An African in British Guiana.
