In a gathering marked by intellectual vigor and collaboration, Igu-Aro Commission Enugwu-Ukwu and Umunri Colloquium Commission have organized the 2024 Umunri Colloquium aimed at fostering deeper understanding of the multifaceted nature of Igbo culture.
The event, which took place at the Civic Centre Enugwu-Ukwu in Njikoka Local Government Area of Anambra State, brought together scholars, experts, enthusiasts and community leaders keen on unraveling Igbo traditions that extend beyond stereotypical rituals.
The 2024 Umunri Colloquium which explored the theme “Omenana Igbo: Beyond The Killing Of Fowls, Pouring Of Libation And Breaking Of Kolanuts,” witnessed a confluence of insightful discussions, research presentations, and interactive sessions.
In an opening remark, the Chairman, Umunri Colloquium Commission, Chief Dr Uche Nworah, said the event stands as a testament to the commitment of the community and Umunri to intellectual growth, cultural preservation, and community development.
In their goodwill messages, the Traditional ruler of Enugwu-Ukwu community, Igwe Ralph Ekpeh, and his Amesi counterpart, Igwe Raphael Okpaleke, said the cultural identity of Ndi Igbo and Umunri in particular is a woven with threads of history, language, traditions and values, stressing that their root is living and breathing entities that evolve with time while retaining its essence.
They said that in the spirit of “Omenana Igbo”, they will continue to foster an environment of inclusivity, respect and mutual understanding by embracing the multifaceted dimensions of their culture, urging all to build a stronger and more united community, while commending the organizers of the event for their immense contributions to the success of the colloquium.
Speaking on the theme of the event, the keynote speaker, Chief Dike Ugbaja, charged the gathering to reflect on the significance of embracing the entirety of “Omenana Igbo” as it is not merely about killing fouls, pouring libations, or breaking of kolanut, but also about the essence, technology and science of Igbo culture, its stories and values that bind them together as a people.
He challenged the gathering to see beyond the familiar customs, and invited a deeper understanding of the cultural heritage of Ndi Igbo.
The panel of discussants made up of Chief Ifeanyichukwu Muorah, Professor Chukwunonyelum Okpala and Arinze Akwawulu emphasized on the alarming changes of community names, regretting that such emerging attitudes can cause Ndị Igbo to lose their culture and tradition.
They called on communities in Anambra state to join hands together to build a culture they will be proud of.
Participants also engaged in a lively exchange, challenging assumptions about Ndi Igbo and collectively contributed to a more profound appreciation of the multifaceted dimensions of Igbo cultural heritage.
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