Umuahia: The Ibeku Kingdom in Umuahia, Abia, has completed preparations to celebrate the ‘Izo Ahia Ibeku’ cultural and traditional event, marking its return after a 53-year hiatus. The event is scheduled for July 24, as announced by Prince Benjamin Apugo, the custodian of Ibeku culture and tradition, during a briefing with newsmen in Umuahia.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Ibeku Kingdom comprises seven clans: Afarata, Afaraukwu, Amaoforo, Emede, Isieke, Ndume, and Ossah. Apugo, who holds the traditional title of Oparaukwu/Ochiagha Ibeku, stated that the ceremony will be held at Isieke Market and will include traditional rites, communal feasting, cultural displays, and thanksgiving. This historic event, which is approximately 3,000 years old, was last celebrated in 1972.
Apugo, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress and a member of the party’s National Board of Trustees, emphasized that ‘Izo Ahia Ibeku’ is distinct from the annual new yam festival. The primary goal of the event is to preserve and promote the heritage of Ibeku for future generations. He mentioned that descendants of Ibeku from various parts of the country, including Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Imo, Enugu, and Ebonyi States, are expected to attend the ceremony.
Apugo noted that although most of the individuals who celebrated ‘Izo Ahia Ibeku’ 53 years ago have passed away, there are still two or three survivors who can provide guidance for the revival. He expressed a desire to educate the younger generation about their rich cultural heritage and traditions.
Chief Ben Onuegbu, a veteran Nollywood actor and producer who witnessed the last event, shared his experience of the ceremony, describing it as a vibrant celebration of Ibeku’s cultural values. Onuegbu explained that the event holds deep significance as it is an inherited tradition from their ancestors, serving as a unifying force for Ibeku sons and daughters.