…says preserving culture pivotal for future generations

By Chinedu Sabastine

The Edeaniegu community in Isi Ozalla in Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State, celebrated their annual Ancestral Day, honoring the bravery of their forefathers who resisted migrants and secured their land.

The traditional leader, His Royal Majesty Don Sylvester Chinedu Nweke who led the celebrations, joined by his cabinet chiefs and members of the community marked the day in grand style.

The event, which takes place every 3rd of January, is a significant occasion for the Edeaniegu people, marking their existence and the struggles of their ancestors.

“The community gathered to pay tribute to their forebears, who fought gallantly to protect their land and heritage”. Don Sylvester said.

The traditional leader of the community explained that Edeaniagu was the ancient man who welcomed migrants from Udi, Ituku, Akegbe, and Aro, and later resisted colonial masters. “He was a strong leader who built relationships and secured peace for his people.

“The celebration is a reminder of the community’s history and heritage. Edeaniagu’s legacy is one of resilience, bravery, and wisdom. He stopped the war between the migrants and the indigenous people, and later intervened in conflicts between neighboring communities.

The community leader lamented that many people have forgotten their history and are spreading false narratives and emphasized the importance of preserving and teaching their history to future generations.

The celebration is a testament to the community’s commitment to preserving its cultural identity and honoring its ancestors and a book detailing the community’s history was also launched during the occasion.

The celebration was also a grand affair, with traditional dances, music, and rituals performed to honor the ancestors.

Because of the importance and significance of the day, His Royal Majesty, Don Sylvester Chinedu Nweke and his cabinet chiefs led the procession, paying homage to the founding fathers of Edeaniegu.

The Edeaniegu Ancestral Day, being an important cultural event, showcase the community’s rich heritage and traditions. It serves as a reminder of the community’s history and the sacrifices made by their ancestors to secure their land and future.

The celebrations demonstrate the community’s commitment to preserving their cultural identity and honoring their ancestors. It was a joyous occasion, with members of the community coming together to celebrate their shared heritage.

Prior to the Ancestral Day proper, Don Sylvester’s sister, a renowned academic and Shell Executive, Professor Munachimso Ebelechukwu Nweke-Okoye, Ufam Ozalla, celebrated their mother expressing gratitude to her for giving birth to 10 children, five boys and five girls.

According to Ufam Ozalla, “In Igbo tradition, once a woman gives birth from up to 9 children and above, there is this ceremony that is usually performed for her. It is called “igbu ewu ukwu” ritual, a goat-killing ceremony to tap into her mother’s anointing for longevity”. Ufam Ozalla said.

Professor Nweke-Okoye’s mother, who raised 10 children single-handedly after losing her husband early in life, was well honored during the ceremony. Her resilience and dedication to her children’s education were acknowledged.

Professor Nweke-Okoye, during the period, empowered members of her community, including men, women, and children, with items such as hairdressing equipment, bags of rice, beans, tubers of yam, and a car. A gesture that is part of her commitment to giving back to society.

In her community, Professor Nweke-Okoye has trained over one hundred (100) persons, and her philanthropic efforts extend beyond Ozalla. She has trained numerous individuals in Nigerian universities and empowered many more.

The event was a celebration of Professor Nweke-Okoye’s life, achievements, and commitment to her community. It was a testament to her impact on the lives of many.

The people of Edeaniegu community and beyond are proud of Professor Nweke-Okoye’s accomplishments and look forward to her continued contributions to society.