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Glorify God through your Cultural heritage-Rev Fr Dim urges Parishioners  …As St Anthony Imo-Abia community celebrates New Yam Festival 

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By Ignatius Okorocha
It was celebration galore as Parishioners of St Anthony Imo-Abia Catholic community in Christ the King Catholic Church (CKC) Kurudu in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on Sunday, September 15, 2024, rolled out their drums in celebration of their New Yam Festival, popularly known as( Iri Ji- Ohuru Festival in Igboland)
The occasion which displayed traditional Yam-Ban containing yams of different sizes and roasted yams one of which was cut to pieces by the traditional ruler of Ndigbo in Kurudu known as H R H,      Igwe Goodluck,Eze Igbo Gburugburu of  Kurudu who was the first to test the yam and followed by the Parish Priest, Very Rev Fr Thaddeus  Chike Dim and other dignitaries invited to grace  the occasion.
The event featured traditional dances by Imo-Abia community women and men in their numbers even as members of Imo-Abia community appeared in their Isi-Agu ceremonial attire.
The community used the occasion to raise funds in support of the on-going church projects.
Fielding questions from Daily Echoes Publisher, Mr IGNATIUS OKOROCHA, the Parish Priest, Rev Fr Dim, called on Parishioners to glorify God through their diverse cultural heritage.
“It is something beautiful for Imo-Abia community in my Parish to have come together to celebrate part of the Igbo culture “New Yam festival, popularly known as ( Iri Ji- Ohuru)”  in our Parish, Christ the King Catholic Church (CKC) Kurudu in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Kurudu.
“You can see that since we gathered here, it has been a thing of joy. Different cultural groups, singing, Dancing, cutting and eating the New Yam.
“This is the yam that was cultivated this year, it has blossomed and we are celebrating it.”
On the significance of the celebration of the new yam festival in the tradition of the church, Fr Chike said,” traditionally in Igbo culture before you plant yam, you go and pray to God, if you remember in the literature book known as “Things fall apart” by Chinua Achebe Onoka before he planted his crops he went and called on his gods to bless and make it fruitful. He reminded his (Chi as it is known in traditional religion) that it  was a new planting season and that he was  going to plant his crops and begged his gods to assist him so that they will give increase to his crops.
So, today’s ceremony is something that we should do before the commencement of farming season  and after we have  harvested our crops. Again if we experience bountiful harvest there is need for us to come back to thank God.
” Traditionally, that is how it should be done. So, as Christians, our believe is  in Christ and therefore all our praises go  to God in our planting season.
The very significant thing that we are doing today, is that we are thanking God for giving us increase, giving us a bountiful harvest this year. The ceremony has a very significant place in the Catholic Church and I encourage all  communities in the Parish to celebrate it.
We are thanking God for his blessings.
On why out of the two major Igbo communities in CKC parish Kurudu, comprising St Anthony Imo-Abia Catholic community and St Joseph Enugu-Anambra and Ebonyi, only St Anthony Imo-Abia community are celebrating this core Igbo culture ( Iri-ji Ohuru), Fr Dim, an Indigene of Imo state said at the planning level he asked the leadership of the st Joseph community why his community was not joining their counter part in celebrating the new yam festival and he was told that St Joseph’s community would celebrate theirs next year.
 He said he was looking forward to seeing st Joseph’s community perform it’s new yam festival by next year.
On his advice to other ethnic nationalities in the parish on how to celebrate their culture, he said, “You know in the past, many people used to think that the church does not promote culture, it is not true. There is what is called inculturation: things like Kola-nut, Yam etc and these things we celebrate in our culture should be something that the church should continue to celebrate and   promote.
“So, I call on the other communities in this parish in particular and even in the diocese at large, to make out time and  celebrate their cultural heritage. One beautiful thing that this will do for us is  that we would be able to hand over our culture to our younger ones.”
Continuing he said,”Some of our children are growing outside the Igboland and it is the duty of our parents to introduce our culture to them. And so, if we celebrate our culture in the cities where we reside, our children and younger generation will learn our culture and this culture will be handed over from generation to another generation.
 “It is not something that will die because they are no more living in their places of origin such as the villages  and as such our culture should not die. No! these are beautiful things that God has given to us.
“The yam is a beautiful thing that God has given us today, we are eating it, it is something that makes our people proud.
“So, we should maintain such culture in all the communities and I encourage my parishioners to emulate their diverse  cultural heritage just like St Anthony Imo-Abia community is doing today.
“Please bring your cultural heritage up and let the younger generation learn from it and remember that at the end, we are all giving glory to God who has blessed us and given us these verities that we have in different cultures.”
In his remarks, Chairman of Imo-Abia community in CKC Kurudu, Chief Honorus Obasi took out time to trace the origin of New Yam festival in Igboland. He said,”The festival is a joyful celebration in appreciation of a successful farming season, that is, when the yam and other crops are satisfactory, good, indeed very bountiful.
“It is a celebration of culture, well-being and life achievement. In times past, large-scale yam farming was considered a symbol of prosperity and one’s maturity. But who are the Igbo one may ask?
“Origin: Iri ji ohuru has its origin in the Igbo homeland, but now celebrated around the world where Igbos are found in reasonable numbers. Its celebration typically depicts Igbo history, tradition, religion and culture and thanksgiving with Emume, Ifejioku, Iwa ji, Ahajioku, Ofala, etc. The event holds on a market day generally at the end of the cropping season.
This is often presided over by the Eze or traditional head of the community, assisted by Ndi Ezeji and the eldest person in the community. Prayers are made to Chukwu-Okike-Abiama, the Igbo God, who has given plenty of yams to the people, that He continues to bless us to prosper the growth, cultivation and harvest of yams in our communities.”
Continuing he said,”The Igbo people are found in many states in the southeast, as well as Delta, Benue, and other adjoining states. The area is located in the rainforest belt, stretching from the delta in the south and bounded in the north by the Igala and the Idoma; in the northeast by the Tiv and the Yako; in the south by the Ogoni and the Ijaw; in the east by the Umon and the Ekoi; in the southeast by the Ibibio and the Annang; in the west by the Isoko and the Urhobo, and in the northwest by the Bini and the Ishan. With an estimated population of 32,000,000 (thirty-two million) by 2010 population count, leaving an average Igbo land of 2,025 people per square mile, making it one of the most densely populated regions in Africa.
“Yam in Igbo Civilization:One of the world largest producers of yam is Igbo land. This implies that the Igbo are traditionally agriculturists, and yam has long served as the principal dietary staple food. In many areas, its tuber is widely recognized for its medicinal properties, and its leaves chewed to relieve gastric distress and the root provides steroids with anti-inflammatory properties that reduce cholesterol levels, swellings caused by arthritis, rheumatism and fungal growths on human skin. The Igbo have built a unique ‘civilization’ around her own genius of the crop. Due to its prime social value among the people, it is considered the king of their crops. All interests, desires and dreams converge upon it; prestige, fame and power rest upon it, and around it are organised institutions, rituals and ceremonies such as the Yam Festival as demonstrated in today’s occasion.
“The annual festival of Iri ji ohuru re-ignite our belief in the philosophy of Umunna Wu Ike, the typical Igbo solidarity. Religiously speaking, this event reminds Ndi Igbo of the implications of the Christian doctrine of Holy Communion, the Resurrection and Fellowship that characterize the gathering around the Lord’s Table as a people of God. We recommend its concept be adapted into the Christian liturgy so that the ceremony can become fully Christianized and add pep to the liturgical celebration.
“We pray for good health, protection against diseases, the fertility of our people, domestic animals and our farmland. The climax of the Thanksgiving is the distribution of the cooked and roasted tubers of yam with mmiri oku ya and chicken pepper soup to all the gathered people present, singing, dancing, drinking and generally making merriment. The Iri ji ohuru festival ranks as the most esteemed of all Igbo festivals. It reminds us that we have a religious obligation to cultivate yams, no matter how small
The Iri ji ohuru festival is a vibrant event in Igbo culture and tradition, highlighting the importance of yam in Igbo society. It also demonstrates the rich cultural heritage of the people.”
The occasion was graced by the Parish Priest, Very Rev Fr Thaddeus Chike Dim (OCD), his assistant, Rev Fr Cyril Udom(OCD) and Rev Johncross Onyedikachi Ozo (OCD) among other special guests.

Arts & Life Style

Lalong seeks Constitutional roles for traditional rulers, says it’s panacea for insecurity

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Senate in session

 

By George Mgbeleke

Senator Simon Bako Lalong representing Plateau South Senatorial District in the 10th National Assembly has maintained that creating constitutional roles for traditional rulers would go a long way in arresting insecurity in the country. He made the remarks while fielding questions from journalists at the Senate Press Corps Centre at the National Assembly Complex, Thursday.

He butressed his claim; “As chairman of the Tinubu/Shettima APC Campaign Council, when we went around, we met traditional rulers who requested for solid roles in the Constitution…These are people who are ready to work to ensure the issue of insecurity (is curtailed) especially using non-kinetic approach…No constitutional roles for them but when there are killings, crisis, they say let’s hold our traditional rulers responsible.”

Regretting that the allocation of the 5% funds to the traditional rulers is hardly enough for them to fuel their vehicles, Lalong tasked the National Assembly to charge the monarchs with assigned responsibilities to enable them to contribute towards arresting the monster of insecurity in Nigeria.

Asked to comment on the relevance of the monarchs in the prevailing civil rule dispensation vis-a-viz what transpired during the first republic parliamentary system of government, the former minister of labour replied;

“We have a fusion (of political dispensations). I was part of the struggle for the approval of the autonomy of the legislature. With a democrat like Tinubu, we’ve had the autonomy of local governments passed by the Supreme Court…

“We continue to struggle… The issue has been trending since 2014 (National Confab) does not mean we lose steam…I hope that with you and me, it will all be over (approval for constitutional roles for traditional rulers) (some day) if it’s for the good of Nigeria… It does not mean we should lose steam.”

Earlier at plenary, Senator Simon Lalong had moved a Bill for an Act to establish the National Council of Traditional Rulers in order to accord them formal recognition.

The Nigerian Senate has passed it for Second Reading.

Lalong, who is the former governor of Plateau State, (2015 – 2023) expressed that traditional rulers are now well-educated, and their advice and opinions on insecurity and other national issues could help the government in meeting the yearnings of citizens.

Said he; “Their formal recognition would as well facilitate their roles and functions,” urging senators to support the bill to be passed into law.

Some senators who expressed reservations about potential conflicts of responsibility cautioned that the bill should clearly distinguish the role of traditional rulers from that of the government to avoid confusion.

Making remarks, Senate President Godswill Obot Akpabio highlighted that the bill should clearly spell out the functions of traditional rulers, adding that a public hearing should be conducted to elicit opinions and perspectives before it is brought for a third reading.

Akpabio stated that traditional rulers have what it takes to offer counsel on a diversity of issues that would help the government before passing the bill for the second reading.

The bill was referred to the Senate Committee on Establishment to report back in four weeks.

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NAPTIP Recommits To Fight Against Human Trafficking

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Officials of NAPTIP

 

By David Owei,Bayelsa

As part of its mission to protect all persons against human trafficking, the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, NAPTIP has reiterated its call for the fight against the scourge of human trafficking.

Bayelsa State Commander, Mrs Abieyuwa Ikhidero made the call during a sensitization campaign with various stakeholders at Ekeki Park, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

Mrs Ikhidero who strongly condemned the act and other related offences such as forced labour and exploitation of humans noted that these offences are punishable by law.

She urged residents of the state to be vigilant and cautious of human traffickers who come in the guise of offering employment or greener pastures outside the country.

” We are here again to speak about human trafficking, it is prevalent in Bayelsa State but we can all work together to stop them, if you see something, say something”

The NAPTIP State Commander emphasized that the agency would ensure that violence in public and private life is eliminated hence residents should report such cases.

Also speaking, Executive Director, WOMAN, Lady Eunice Nnachi appealed to parents and guardians to protect their children from human traffickers by ensuring that they are not deceived by fake promises of education and better welfare.

” Parents must be careful and not allow their children to be taken by just any person they do not trust, cases of maltreatment of children should also be reported”

On her part, Founder, DO Foundation, Dise Goddy Harry who expressed displeasure over human trafficking called on residents to always speak up inorder to reduce the scourge in the state.

Administrative Secretary, ENWAF, Ebizimo Agedah commended NAPTIP for their work by providing access to justice against offenders.

Former FIDA Chairperson, Barrister Deme Pamosoo emphasized the need for all persons to report suspected cases of human trafficking.

The campaign was attended by other Non governmental organizations such as Gender Response Initiative Team, Coalition of Women led Organizations and representatives of FIDA, Bayelsa State.

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Gbagyi Culture Under Threat as Elders Calls for Preservation

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Elder Peterson Kaura,

 

By Uthman Baba-Al-Naseer- Minna

The Gbagyi Forum has pledged to do everything possible to protect and preserve its culture for the development of its people across the entire country.

The Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Gbagyi Elders Forum (GEF), Elder Peterson Kaura, stated this while presenting the communique of the forum’s meeting at Azzarh Hotel in Minna, the Niger State capital at the weekend.

Elder Peterson Kaura added that the Gbagyi people, known for their rich cultural heritage and significant contributions to Nigeria’s development, face growing threats from urbanization, economic challenges, and political marginalization.

He noted that despite their deep historical roots, there is very little documentation on Gbagyi history, with even fewer records written by the Gbagyi people themselves. This lack of documentation has contributed to the erosion of their cultural identity and historical recognition.

Peterson Kaura emphasized that the Gbagyi people have played a vital role in Nigeria’s development, particularly in the establishment of Northern Nigerian capitals, including Zungeru, Kaduna, and today’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Additionally, Minna, the capital of Niger State, is historically linked to the Gbagyi. Unfortunately, the cherished values of the Gbagyi accommodation, trust, hard work, and hospitality are being exploited. The ownership of ancestral lands in Abuja, Kaduna, and other parts of Nigeria remains a contentious issue.

The elder added that in the past, a significant leadership vacuum hindered Gbagyi unity and political participation, leaving the community vulnerable to socio-political marginalization. The absence of strong leadership allowed external influences to determine the political fate of the Gbagyi people.

He pointed out that economic hardships, lack of infrastructure, and high poverty levels continue to impede the full potential of the Gbagyi people. Without targeted economic empowerment programs, the community remains at a disadvantage compared to other ethnic groups in Nigeria.

He stressed the urgent need for initiatives that promote educational and economic advancement, particularly in the areas of Gbagyi history, cultural heritage, and economic empowerment. Strengthening these areas will ensure that future generations are equipped to preserve and promote Gbagyi traditions.

He, therefore, urged governments at all levels to collaborate and address the insecurity and banditry affecting Gbagyi ancestral lands, particularly in Kaduna, Niger, Kogi, and the FCT. He added that security concerns have displaced many Gbagyi communities, further threatening their cultural survival and economic stability.

The Gbagyi Elders Forum also appreciates President Ahmed Bola Tinubu for appointing Hon. Zephaniah Bitrus Jisalo to his cabinet, representing the Federal Capital Territory. This appointment is a significant step toward recognizing the contributions of the Gbagyi people and promoting inclusivity in governance.

The forum also acknowledges the Federal Government’s continued recognition of the late Ladi Kwali, a renowned Gbagyi potter, whose artistry remains a source of pride and inspiration. Such recognition highlights the need for more efforts to document and promote Gbagyi contributions to Nigeria’s cultural and economic landscape.

“The GEF will work towards fostering unity among Gbagyi communities, ensuring that religious and dialectical differences do not hinder progress,” Elder Peterson Kaura stated.

He added, “A Gbagyi Land Rights Committee will be constituted to engage policymakers and government authorities to address ancestral land ownership issues and secure compensation for displaced communities.”

He also announced that an Economic Development Initiative will be facilitated to promote skills acquisition, entrepreneurship, and job creation.

Elder Peterson Kaura further urged the Federal Government to expedite the completion of the Sarkin-Pawa to Kaduna Road to enhance security and economic activities.

The Gbagyi Elders Forum remains committed to collaborating with all levels of government and other stakeholders to tackle the challenges facing the Gbagyi people. By fostering inclusivity, recognition, and representation, the GEF believes it can help build a more just, equitable, and prosperous Nigeria.

The GEF expresses deep appreciation to the Deputy Governor of Niger State, Comrade Yakubu Garba; Hon. Minister of Special Duties and Inter-governmental Affairs, Hon. Zephaniah B. Jisalo; and Senator Philip T. Aduda for their moral and material support in hosting the historic unveiling of the GEF. Special recognition is also given to Dr. Gaza Dogara Gomna and Lawrence Atafache Garki for their facilitation, technical services, and support.

The GEF extends gratitude to the numerous Gbagyi individuals who attended the event, reaffirming its commitment to working collaboratively to ensure cultural preservation, economic advancement, and political inclusion. The Board of Trustees of the Gbagyi Elders Forum has agreed to convene the First Annual Gbagyi Cultural Festival on February 5-8, 2026, with further details to be announced later.

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