Igbo traditional grandeur: Ọnịcha, Enugwu-Ukwu as beacons of excellence

By Nnamdi Wenga Ikwuazom 

A few days ago, the ageless king of boys, Chief Ozomkpu Uche Nworah – Ezeudo Enugwu Ukwu na Umunri, was initiated into the apex Ozo society in the Umunri dynasty.

His initiation was part of others which has been ongoing for the last week and more.

One thing however is intriguing to note. The system of the Enugwu Ukwu title taking is so grand and beautiful to watch.

As a lover of culture and traditions myself, I have observed the ceremonies of other communities and I don’t think there are any who come close to the top two.

Ọnịcha Mmili and Enugwu Ukwu.

In Igbo land today, our traditional system has been taken over by money worship and titles have become a thing of the “highest bidder”

Very few towns maintained their sacred orientation and today, the chances of finding a worthy title system in Ani Igbo is almost impossible.

You can come from just anywhere and get a title so long as you have bags of money.

A total chaotic debacle unworthy of commendation.

Watching Ozomkpu Dr. Uche Nworah on social media, displaying his culture, one can clearly see that such beautiful displays are only possible because it thrives on a strong system.

The Enugwu Ukwu traditional structure is as good as it was decades ago. This makes it easier for value retainment and also for distinction.

The processions, the drumming, the rituals, the dances and the salutations, all are part of a system that has been preserved over time.

A perfect example of the regality of the Igbo culture.

Ọnịcha Mmili shares same price. Our system has remained unbreakable over the centuries and the Ọnịcha titled man views himself as second only to God.

The processions, the drumming, the rituals, the dances and salutations, are testament to a long preserved culture.

One that money has no influence on.

The Ọnịcha Ozo society is so grand, that even if you were to be the richest person in the world, as long as you fail the requirements, forget about the title.

This is despite the fact that the Ọnịcha Ozo title is the most expensive in the East and possibly across Nigeria.

By expensive, I’m talking about mandatory requirements and not personal expenditure.

The symbolism around the Ọnịcha Ozo society is intriguing.

From the virgin pre teen girl carrying the “Okwa Chi” on her head as the procession moves, to the presentation of dry fish and other items by the spouse of the initiate, to the”ima nzu ” purification process in the dead of the night, to the oath taking before the spirit of Nze, the beauty of the Igbo culture is glaringly adorable.

The Ọnịcha and Enugwu Ukwu traditional structures are obviously inbedded in history, like others apparently, but with that unmistakable aura of finesse and divinity.

One thing that money cannot buy, is regality. Ọnịcha and Enugwu Ukwu are miles ahead of the rest in this regard.

These two towns are the beautiful brides of Igbo heritage. A people who have sustained their heritage and identity and consciousness of who they are.

These two towns are evidence that the Igbo traditional structure is not money based rather it is value based.

Yes, this post might be offensive to some, but swear that when you see Ozomkpu Uche Nworah and Ozomkpu Amb Elijah Onyeagba, that you don’t feel like running to spray them money for being so royal and regal!

Swear that when you watch the Ọnịcha Ozo initiation and Ofala, that you don’t feel goosebumps, especially when you see the vibration of the likes of Chief Uboh Etukokwu Obiora Nnagozie !

The Igbo culture must be preserved and shielded from money politics. We must protect the heritage of our people and promote the truth of who we are.

I’ll end it with the popular Ọnịcha saying; “Ọnịcha ejiri Ozo eche Oji”

If you don’t understand Igbo, I just said Igbo kalisili ivenine!