By Iheanyi Enwerem
The Executive Chairman of Ihitte/Uboma Local Government Area of Imo State, Prince Obioha Ndukwe, has called on the people of the area to remain steadfast in upholding the culture and traditions of Igbo land.
Prince Ndukwe made this call during the 2025 Mbomuozo Festival, which took place at the Eke Umuihi Market Square. The festival’s opening ceremony, known as Oturu Nkwekwe (Nkomonu), was held on Thursday amidst colorful cultural displays and traditional rites.
The chairman noted that festivals such as Mbomuozo are not just for merriment, but serve as a vital means of passing down age-long traditions, values, and beliefs to younger generations. He emphasized that culture is the identity of a people, and that any society that abandons its traditions risks losing its sense of belonging.
Speaking further, Prince Ndukwe urged parents and community leaders to deliberately involve youths in cultural activities, stressing that modern civilization should not be allowed to erase the customs that bind the Igbo nation together. He added that the Imo State Government remains committed to supporting cultural events that foster unity and peace among communities.
The 2025 edition of the Mbomuozo Festival attracted traditional rulers, community leaders, women groups, and youths from different villages in Ihitte/Uboma. The event featured traditional dances, masquerade displays, flute performances, and the symbolic rituals associated with Oturu Nkwekwe.
Elders of the community described the festival as one of the most significant cultural events in Ihitte/Uboma, as it marks a period of thanksgiving, communal bonding, and spiritual renewal. They expressed appreciation to the council chairman for gracing the occasion and for his commitment to cultural preservation.
In their goodwill messages, other dignitaries at the event commended the organizers for keeping the tradition alive and pledged continuous support to ensure that the Mbomuozo Festival remains a rallying point for the people of Ihitte/Uboma both at home and in the diaspora.