Enugwu-Ukwu (Anambra), Chief Ignatius Okoye, a London-based Nigerian from Enugwu-Ukwu, Anambra state, has called on Ozo title holders of the community to promote the ideals of their forefathers by sustaining Igbo core values.
Okoye made the call in an interview with the Newsmen on Tuesday in his country home, Ifiteani, Enugwu-Ukwu, Njikoka Local Government Area (LGA) of Anambra.
Okoye who was newly initiated into the prestigious Ozonkpụ society of Enugwu-Ukwu community, said he accepted the title because it is a way to sustain legacies of the ancestors.
“I adopted the name ‘Ozo Akachukwu -Udenwaeze II, because my late father was Akachukwu Udenwueze I, so I wish to sustain his good legacies.
“Ozo title holders in Enugwu-Ukwu community are the highest title holders and members of the decision-making body (culturally) in the community.
“I now have the opportunity to contribute positively to my community development.
“Titled men are respected personalities in my community who are expected to be the voice of the voiceless and stand out in truth and exemplary lifestyle always,” he said.
Okoye said “Crimes of all sorts are currently being committed in our community on daily basis, which only titled men can stop by maintaining safer and saner society.
Okoye said that his people are known for good behaviour, respect for Elders, and regards for Igbo values, traditions and cultures which are being handed over from generations to generations.
“Ozo title taking is not meant for hooligans, money bags, but for dignified personalities in different walks of life,” he said.
Okoye said that he enjoyed the beauty of the process of selection and induction into the Ozonkpu society as it reminded him of the respect and honour accorded to his father.
He commended the Chairman of Ozo title stakeholders in the community, Chief Joesph Okonkwo, for keeping firm the traditional values of the community.
Okoye said that despite being London based, his value for the culture and tradition of the community is unparalleled.
He said that he will continue to propagate Igbo cultures all the days of his life and soon would present his son for induction as part of his role in promoting Igbo values.
He said that the new title will spur him to attract more development to his community and ensure that Igbo identities are sustained.
“Our language and dressing code are sacred and I need to be a promoter of these identities wherever I found myself,” he said.
Okoye commended his wife Rose and children for supporting him in his decision to take up the traditional title despite their long stay in Western world.