The fear that Igbo language, culture and tradition might go into extinction if necessary steps are not taking to preserve them might not be after all.
This is as several stakeholders in Igbo land seem to be taking needed steps to preserve them.
These conclusions came to the fore after witnessing the new yam festival of Eziowelle community in Idemili North Local Government Area as hosted by the President of Anambra State Association of Town Unions ASATU, Chief Titus Akpudo.
Chief Akpudo, a lawyer who doubles as the President-General of Eziowelle performed the function in line with the Igbo culture and tradition after the traditional ruler of the community has performed the function.
The ceremony which took place in his compound, attracted top government functionaries, political gladiators, Presidents-General from different communities in the state and well-wishers who converged on his country home to felicitate with him.
During the celebration, Chief Akpudo performed the kolanut rituals followed by cutting of the new yam and dancing to the famous Egbendu Oba cultural music.
In a goodwill message a business executive and Igbo cultural proponent Chief Austin Oguejiofor who recalled that new yam festival started from the olden days regretted the disconnect between many Igbo youths and their roots but expressed confidence that the continued celebration of such festivals will reconnect them and help them to appreciate their rich heritage.
He commended Chief Akpudo for his efforts to promote Igbo language, culture and tradition.
For the National Vice President-General of Ohaneze Ndigbo worldwide and Chairman Board of Trustees of Anambra State Association of Town Unions, Chief Damian Okeke-Ogene, new yam festival is a strong culture of Ndi Igbo which unites them and explained that the festival is designed to promote the culture of different communities in the State and the Igbo race in general.
In their separate speeches, the Managing Director of the Anambra Broadcasting Service, Sir Chido Obidiegwu and flagbearer of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, for Idemili North and South Federal Constituency, for next year’s general elections Chief Ikenna Iyiegbu emphasized that New Yam festival highlights the value Igbo people places on showing gratitude and thanksgiving.
Appreciating God for his mercies upon his community through the farming season and harvest time, the celebrant, Chief Akpudo encouraged the upcoming generation to always promote their culture and tradition.
Chief Akpudo was earlier conferred with a chieftaincy title of ‘Ugu Nyili Oso Na Eziowelle” by the traditional ruler of the community, Igwe Michael Okonkwo- Etusi.
Masquerade and cultural displays as well as presentations added glamour to the event.
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