The Legacy of 12 Brass Street: A Chronicle of Tradition, Resilience, and Excellence

Nestled in the heart of Atlanta, GA, 12 Brass Street, an Art platform, stands as a testament to a legacy woven with the threads of determination, education, and civic duty. The roots of our name trace back to the illustrious life of Chief The Hon. Justice (ret’d) Cosmas Azubuko Chidiebele Ikeotuonye, a luminary whose story continues to inspire our creative journey.

A Birth Rooted in Tradition:

Chief Ikeotuonye's journey began on the 4th of October, 1921, in Ndimgbu, Otolo, Nnewi. His birth, marked by Igbo calendar significance, laid the foundation for a life dedicated to service and excellence. Through meticulous research, he discovered his birthdate, aligning with the 1st of October, a day he celebrated with pride throughout his remarkable life.

Early Lessons in Industry:

Raised in Iffite Olu, Chief Ikeotuonye imbibed the spirit of industriousness from a young age. His formative years involved mastering the art of making raffia mats, contributing to the livelihood of his family. These early lessons in hard work and dedication would become the cornerstones of his future endeavours.

The Odyssey of Education:

Chief Ikeotuonye's pursuit of knowledge took him from St. Joseph’s Catholic School in Okofia, Otolo, Nnewi, to the Christ the King’s School in Aba. His resilience and intelligence earned him a double promotion, setting the stage for his exceptional academic journey. His unwavering commitment to education led him to the prestigious Hope Waddell Training Institute, Calabar, where he not only excelled academically but also showcased his artistic talents in the school's renowned Roman Catholic Brass Band and Choir.

A Journey to the Bar:

The turning point in Chief Ikeotuonye's life came when he embarked on a courageous journey to the United Kingdom to study law. Facing challenges and uncertainties, he earned admission to the Inns Court School of Law, London, and was called to the English (Upper) Bar on the 25th of September, 1958. Returning to Nigeria, he established a thriving law practice at 18 Park Road, Aba where he was until the Nigerian civil war started. After the war, he returned to 18 Park Road. Years later, he erected a building on 12 Brass Street, where he subsequently moved his law firm—a building that stands as a cherished part of the family estate.

A Life of Service and Leadership:

Chief Ikeotuonye's impact extended beyond the legal realm. A seasoned politician, he served as the Secretary of the Aba Branch of the Zikist movement and later as the Secretary of the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroun (NCNC). His tenure as Chairman of the Health and Building Committee of the Aba Urban Council left an indelible mark on the city, including the construction of the iconic Aba Town Hall.

The Artistic Legacy:

Inspired by Chief Ikeotuonye's multifaceted life, 12 Brass Street, strives to embody the values of resilience, excellence, and community engagement. Our art is not merely a collection; it is a celebration of tradition, a reflection of the journey that led to the establishment of 12 Brass Street.

Building on Tradition, Crafting the Future: As an art consultancy, we honor Chief The Hon. Justice (ret’d) Cosmas Azubuko Chidiebele Ikeotuonye's legacy by infusing his spirit into our artistic endeavors. The progression from a modest law firm at 18 Park Road, Aba, to the construction of his own building on 12 Brass Street, Aba, encapsulates an ongoing narrative of a profound heritage. This journey echoes the core values of education, resilience, and an unwavering dedication to excellence. Join us at 12 Brass Street as we celebrate the enduring legacy that fuels our creative endeavors—a legacy rooted in the extraordinary life of Chief The Hon. Justice (ret’d) Cosmas Azubuko Chidiebele Ikeotuonye, Mkpaduluigbo Nnewi.