"History has taught us that no development in the world has succeeded in maintaining its purity over time without change... I do not claim to possess the solutions in the many complex issues that have brought Onitsha to its present state. Nevertheless, it is my belief that we cannot continue to drift like a rudderless ship without thought as to what legacy we are leaving to our children. It is important however to draw attention to the various ills I have identified in the hope that some thought would be provoked in those with a conscience, to start at least some conversations towards finding solutions to these challenges currently facing the town." - Chief Arthur Mbanefo, Mbanefo Odu III of Onitsha *** In his characteristically forthright manner, Chief Mbanefo tackles his subject head-on. He brings passion, knowledge of his subject, and an immense wealth of experience to bear in his analyses and discussion of the complex issues involved. There are no doubt plenty of lessons to take away from this brief treatise, not just for the people of Onitsha, but for people in other parts of Nigeria as well.