The people of Abagana community in the Njikoka Local Government Area of Anambra State are celebrating the return of one of their sons, whose parent was sold into slavery several years ago, Dr Griffin Lotson, from the United States of America.

The 71-year-old Lotson, who is now a Council Member and Mayor of the State of Georgia, was joyously received alongside other US returnees by the Regent of the community and the Founding Chairman, Igbo World Assembly, the umbrella organisation of Ndi-Igbo in Diaspora, Dr. Nwachukwu Anakwenze, at his palace over the weekend.

Speaking to South-East Punch at the Palace of the Regent, Lotson appreciated the community for welcoming them back to their ancestral home without any form of rejection and mockery.

He said, “I am delighted to be here with my biological people after over 71-years away. My returned will add prosperity to Abagana community, Anambra State and Nigeria as a whole. I feel so special and humble to be wholeheartedly welcome by this great Abagana Kingdom

“I am a businessman, historian, a researcher and a Mayor of Pro Tem Georgia, United States of America, USA. And I honestly believe that my return will bring positive changes to Abagana community, Anambra State, Igbo Nation, Nigeria and Africa continent at large.”

In his remarks on behalf of the community, the Regent of the community, Anakwenze and a former People’s Democratic Party, Presidential aspirant in the 2023 general elections, described Mr Lotson’s return from the USA as a significant relief for the entire community.

“Our joy as Abagana people knows no bounds. This is a great day for us. Since the beginning of this week, it has been jubilation and celebration across the community.

“This is Mayor Lotson from the State of Georgia, an African-American, through DNA, he was able to trace that he is an Igbo man. His mother was from this community sold into slavery in those days, around 1803 when the white men landed.

“Their parents were some of our people that were taking by force to the United States. Many of the children they gave birth to are now professionals in various fields contributing to the development of the United States and making them world powers. But they did not feel fulfilled and wanted to know where their ancestors came from

“But today, Mayor and other returnees are here to see where their forefathers came from, and since they came they have been excited and a lot of them have indicated interest to come home. Our people are intelligent and hardworking and their impact will be felt at home,” Anakwenze added.

He appealed to the people to accord the returnees all necessary assistants to enable them have a total stability. (PUNCH)