Eze Damian Njoku, Ekwueme II
Plans have hit conclusive level for staging the annual Nguru Uboma Unity Cultural Festival, designed to celebrate the rich culture of the people of the community in Mbaise.
Tagged ‘Ituaka’, the events will hold in Mbaise from February, 4 to 18, 2023.
Highlighting the essence of the yearly event, Eze Damian Njoku, Ekwueme II of Nguru Nwenkwo Autonomous Community in Aboh Mbaise LGA of Imo State, said that it started ages ago, and was aimed at bringing peace to the area.
He further explained that ‘Ituaka’ was a period the sons and daughters of the land prepared for the new farming season, noting that it afforded members of the community the opportunity to unite for peace, development and harmony.
He enjoined residents of the area to come out enmasse to support the programme financially and showcase love just as he added that many dignitaries were expected to grace the occasion.
Said Eze Njoku: “I’m expecting peace to reign in the community. Any indigene of the area should preach peace. There is no gain in causing troubles. We need progress in Nguru Nwenkwo.
“It’s a ceremony our forefathers started way back. It’s all about preparing for farming season and how to farm. ‘Ituaka’ is when a king, development union and elders council, will come out and show forth their subordinates where to farm.
“In the good old days, we always picked out where to farm. So, that’s what we are doing now. With that it brings peace, development to the community.
“Afterwards, if we notice anyone that goes contrary to it, the person will be sanctioned. We will have an instructor to guide us on how to go about the farming season.
“The main ceremony which is the ‘Ituaka’ is done as a festival where everyone comes together to merry. Then the king instructs the constituents where to farm.
“We are looking forward to the grand finale on the 18th February, 2023 at Nguru Center. I’m anticipating all sons and daughters of Nguru Nwenkwo to come out enmasse and support us financially, and showcase their love towards us.
“Most especially this is an election year. We decided to host the event before the election. We are anticipating dignitaries to come and to showcase themselves. The head of the development union is looking forward to sons and daughters of the land to contribute their quota for the success of the programme”.
Speaking also, Nze Nzeh Peter, secretary of the organising committee, said the printing process of the events brochure had begun, urging individuals and Institutions willing to sponsor the event to call 08034302026, 09023347826 and 08062359191.
Mr Kennedy Onwunali, media sub committee chairman, said every arrangement had been made for a successful ‘Ituaka Nguru 2023’.
