The 13th Iyase (Traditional Prime minister) of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom in Aniocha South Local Government Area, High Chief Mike Chukwuka Nwaukoni has urged Nigerians to continue to uphold and promote their cultural heritage for posterity .
High Chief Nwaukoni gave the charge while performing the 2024 Ineh Cultural festival at Ogwashi- Uku.
He enjoined Nigerians to do everything possible to preserve and protect their rich cultural and traditional endowment for future generations saying that culture was a way of life and age long Identity which should be transmitted from one generation to another.
He called on the federal authorities to upgrade the ogwashi – Uku Ineh festival to a National event to boost the foreign exchange earnings of the country.
Chief Nwaukoni remarked that the festival was an annual thanksgiving meant to specially appreciate God for His blessings and protection saying that the day was usually marked with merry making , celebration and dance procession round the community.
The highly revered Chief Nwaukoni admonished the people to continue to leave in peace and harmony with one another and avoid acts inimical to the continued security, growth and development of the kingdom.
The Onu – Iyase of Agidiase community, Chief Lawrence Okafor who led the dance procession round the area said the festival was not only unique but a re enactment of the age long culture and tradition of the people which according to him had come to stay.
Accompanied by titled chiefs and family members including the Delta State PDP youth leader and National legal advisor to the Ogwashi – Uku Development Association ( ODA) worldwide, Francis Okolie Esq, the festival and dance procession had the trappings of a carnival as the old, the young, boys and girls celebrated in a convivial atmosphere devoid of acrimony.
The festival also attracted some high ranking chiefs including the Ihonor of Ogwashi-Uku, Chief Hycent Okolie,the Ogegbe – Obi of Ogwashi-Uku. Chief Dan Modiekwu, elders of Agediase community, women groups , a delegation of elders from Otulu – Ogwsshi, Asagba – Ogwashi , Edo- Ogwashi, and Aboh – Ogwashi among several other personalities.
Also in attendance were the Secretary – General of Ogwashi-Uku Development Association (ODA) World Wide, Mr Adigwe Eluemunor Sunday and the immediate past President General of the O. D. A, Mazi Emmanuel Ashinze .