By Leonard Okachie

The Ibeku Kingdom in Umuahia, Abia, has concluded arrangements to mark ‘Izo Ahia Ibeku’ cultural and traditional event, 53 years after the last celebration.

The custodian of Ibeku culture and tradition, Prince Benjamin Apugo (aka BB Apugo), who briefed newsmen in Umuahia about activities lined up for the event, said that it was scheduled for July 24.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Ibeku Kingdom is made up of seven clans namely: Afarata, Afaraukwu, Amaoforo, Emede, Isieke, Ndume and Ossah.

Apugo, who holds the traditional title of Oparaukwu/Ochiagha Ibeku, said that the ceremony which would hold at Isieke Market, would involve traditional rites, communal feasting, cultural displays and thanksgiving.

He said that the historical, event which was about 3,000 years old, was last celebrated in 1972.

Apugo, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress and member National Board of Trustees of the party, said that the ‘Izo Ahia Ibeku’ is a unique event that is different from the annual new yam festival.

The cultural custodian added that the aim was to safeguard and promote Ibeku’s heritage for future generations.

He said that the descendants of Ibeku in different parts of the country and beyond, including those in Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Imo, Enugu, Ebonyi States, were expected to grace the ceremony.

“Most of the people who celebrated ‘Izo Ahia Ibeku’ 53 years ago are dead now but we are lucky to have about two or three of them that are still alive to guide us.

“We want to revive it and let our children know about our rich cultural heritage and tradition,” he said.

A veteran Nollywood actor and producer, Chief Ben Onuegbu, who witnessed the last event, explained that it was usually a colourful ceremony showcasing the rich cultural values of Ibeku land.

“I’m privileged to have participated in the one of 1972 because it was a very big occasion and only about five of us who witnessed it then are still alive.

“This special cultural and traditional event bites deep into us because it is what we inherited from our ancestors, it is the vein that unites us as Ibeku sons and daughters,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng).

Edited by Vivian Ihechu