Ozo title is considered perhaps the most prestigious honour in Igbo land, and those holding the title are highly respected and trusted for their contributions to societal development.
In Neni, Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State, Ozo Ezeani is the highest Ozo title which is given to people who have in many ways impacted on the community.
To this end, Chief Okechinyelugo Mathias Agurd considered it necessary to celebrate the honour done him by his community, having been conferred with the Ozo Ezeani Neni title.
Correspondent, Emmanuel reports that Chief Agurd was conferred with the title, having fulfilled all the rites and requirements, and having decided to obey all the rules and regulations of Ndi Nze N’Ozo Neni society, in respect of Nkuruofor Ozo Ezeani Neni.
Being a philanthropist, Chief Agurd decided to give two cows to each of the ten villages in Neni, and also to some respected groups in the community, such as “Otu Umuada”, “Ndi Nze N’Ozo”, among others, instead of the usual one cow to each of the villages.
Various title names given to Chief Agurd include Ezeani Oruefi One of Neni, Ezeani Chinyelugo Neni, Ezeani Obodokunie of Neni, and Ezeani Omenyiriora of Neni.
In their separate remarks, the Traditional ruler of the community, Igwe Damian Onwuamaeze-Ezeani, and the Head of Ndi Nze N’Ozo Neni society, Chief Albert Ibeanu, while commending Chief Agurd for deeming it necessary to take the Ozo Ezeani Neni title despite his exposure, thanked him for all his contributions to the development of the community, and asked him to always abide by the rules guiding the society.
The new Ozo Ezeani Neni title holder, Chief Agurd, and his wife, Uchenna, who also received title of “Lolo Nkemjiaka”, expressed happiness over the honour done them by the community, and promised to continue with their works for humanity.
In an interview, a relative to the celebrant, Dr Amaka Akudo, who is a consultant to Anambra State Government on Voter Education, called on Ndi Neni to embrace their rich cultural heritage and make it attractive to the world, instead of embracing other people’s culture.
The celebration, also known as “Izuafia ozo”, which took place at Neni Civic Centre and Oye Neni market square, featured dance by the latest Ozo Ezeani Neni title holder, Chief Okechinyelugo Mathias Agurd, in company of his wife, members of Ozo Ezeani Neni and friends, after which the celebrant retired to his ancestral country home at Umuabani village, where he entertained guests who paid him homage.
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