Culture: Ebonyi foundation hosts carnival, vows to revive Igbo heritage
By Oswald Agwu, Abakaliki
Ebonyi non-governmental organization, Ike-Elechi Ogba Foundation says it is working with stakeholders and the State Government to revive Igbo culture and traditions at risk of fading away.
Founder and Ebonyi State University Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics), Prof. Ike-Elechi Ogba, said the cultural carnival and art exhibition were organised to showcase African and Nigerian heritage, with a focus on Ebonyi customs.
The event held at the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities Hall, Ebonyi State University permanent site, Abakaliki, and featured the launch of the foundation’s book, “Echoes of a Regal Throne.”
It drew Governor Francis Nwifuru, former governor and Education Minister Dr. Sam Egwu, and EBSU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Michael Awoke, among other dignitaries.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Grace Umezuruike, Governor Nwifuru said the administration “is doing a whole lot to sustain the culture of Igbo land, both language, especially that of Ebonyi State.”
He condemned attacks on traditional rulers, underscoring their strategic role in protecting lives and property at the grassroots.
Dr. Egwu, represented by former Information Commissioner Dr. John Otu, described the killing of custodians of culture as “regrettable and unfortunate,” arguing that if political office holders get security, traditional rulers should too. He urged national and state assemblies to legislate security provision for recognised traditional rulers.
Prof. Awoke, represented by Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) Prof. Michael Aja Nwachukwu, commended the foundation for promoting Igbo culture and tradition.
Prof. Ogba said the carnival is part of the Ogbaekirigwe Legacy Project to celebrate and preserve South-East heritage.
“We are showcasing African culture, Nigerian culture, but most importantly, Ebonyi people’s culture… Ebonyi has a history that predates modern times,” he noted.
Ogba lamented “a dearth of real kings,” saying elders and monarchs who once stood for equity, justice and fairness have allowed negative Western influences to erode indigenous values.
On the way forward, Uchechukwu Agbo, President of One Youth Global, called for stronger partnerships between NGOs and government at all levels to halt the erosion of cultural heritage in Ebonyi, Nigeria and across Africa.
During the exhibition, the foundation awarded over ₦1.5 million to artists.
•Photo Caption (L-R): Former EBSU VC, Prof. Francis Idike, Ebonyi SSG, Prof. Grace Umezurike and the founder of Foundation, Prof. Ike-Elechi Ogba and his wife.
