By Amaka Okafor
Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, has urged the people of Izzi clan to use this year’s New Yam Festival, popularly known as Ojiji, to strengthen the bonds of unity among families, kindreds and communities.
Nwifuru made the call in goodwill messages to the people of Izzi on the occasion of the annual cultural festival on Friday in Abakaliki the state capital.
The governor described Ojiji as more than a cultural celebration, saying it represents the identity, heritage and communal values of the Izzi people.
He said, “Ojiji is not merely a festival but a sacred expression of who we are as a people, a celebration of the fruits of our labour, the abundance of our land, the wisdom of our ancestors and the enduring strength of our communal bonds.”
Nwifuru stressed the need for the people to preserve their cultural inheritance and pass it on to generations yet unborn, despite what he described as the pervasive erosion of indigenous norms through Western orientation and ideology.
“As we gather in our villages, homes and various communities to celebrate Ojiji, I urge every son and daughter of Izzi to remember the virtues that have historically distinguished our people—unity, courage, hospitality, hard work, respect for elders, communal responsibility and love for one another,” he said.
The governor said he was particularly proud of the rich cultural heritage of Izzi, assuring that his administration would continue to support initiatives aimed at preserving the state’s traditions and promoting indigenous identity.
He added, “As your Governor and, more importantly, as your son and brother, I am particularly proud of the rich cultural heritage of Izzi. Our culture is one of the greatest treasures we possess, and my administration will continue to support initiatives that preserve our traditions, promote our indigenous identity and create opportunities for our people to prosper.”
Nwifuru also called on traditional rulers, elders, political leaders, youths, women and other stakeholders to sustain cooperation and collective responsibility in advancing the development of Izzi communities.
