The traditional ruler of Amurri in Enugu State, His Royal Majesty, Igwe Charles Egbo Nwoye, has urged the Igbo people to preserve their cultural heritage, warning that future generations will not forgive them if these traditions fade away. During the annual “Oriri Anu Amurri” festival, a celebration of the harvest and soil, the monarch highlighted that a people’s history is inseparable from their culture.
He encouraged other traditional leaders across Igbo land to continue promoting and safeguarding local customs. Igwe Nwoye described the festival as a way to honor the earth and the harvest, emphasizing the importance of valuing and celebrating Amurri’s cultural heritage.
Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, represented by Agriculture Commissioner Patrick Ubru, praised the Amurri community’s dedication to farming, which aligns with the state’s food security goals. Dr. Ben Nwoye, former chairman of APC in Enugu, further emphasized the need for religious tolerance, recalling how local communities embraced various Christian denominations and provided land for churches and schools. He appealed to all religions to respect traditional worship and avoid marginalizing indigenous practices.
The festival’s chief priest, John Njoku, noted that this year’s event included the new yam celebration, a time to show gratitude for the harvest. Senator Kelvin Chukwu added that the festival allows the community to showcase its rich heritage, uniting Amurri’s sons and daughters.