Igwe Chidubem Iweka of Obosi has cautioned Ndi Obosi to strive to stop all forms of criminal activities, so as to live a good and healthy life in order to attain 80, the age of Ito Ogbo. He made the call while addressing the Ito Ogbo festival of Ndi Igwebuike Age Grade of Obosi.
Igwe Iweka observed that Ito Ogbo was handed down to them by their ancestors over the last 400 years while Explaining that Ito ogbo festival is not a pagan practice but a culture that seeks to unite Obosi indigenes and the elderly, who attain 80 and above. This is celebrated once in three years.
The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed noted that culture was the backbone of every community while pointing that the festival, an age-long tradition of Obosi kingdom, would soon be recognised by the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural organisation (UNESCO), on the recommendation of the Federal Ministry of Information and culture. Alhaji Mohammed was represented at the event by the Permanent Secretary, Dr Ifeoma A Anyanwutaku.
In reaction, President-General of Obosi kingdom, Mr Ikechukwu Okolo said Obosi was a reference point in playing host to other communities in Anambra State. He noted that COVID-19 pandemic is real and admonished the people to Always adhere to its safety protocols in other to live long in sound health just as the people being honoured.
The PG pointed out that Gov. Willie Obiano of Anambra deserved to be praised over the manner that he had so far handled the pandemic to promote the safety of Ndi Anambra. Okolo, further used the occasion to appeal to the government to remember Obosi kingdom because they deserve to produce top people for positions like Commissioners, Chairman of Government institutions and boards.
Committee Chairman Ito Ogbo festival, Mr Chinedu Nwogem in his remarks said that cultural celebrations always announce a community and the ito Ogbo Obosi is one the traditional festivals worthy of emulation.
In attendance at the festival were clergyman, Ndi Ichie, Ndi Iyom and notable Nigerians from far and wide.
