In Awka, Rev Ekweozor launches books on lgbo history

….Advocates  lgbo historical studies and research

The atmosphere was refreshing and serene as people trooped to honour the invitation by Rev Canon Charles Amobi Ekweozor, who launched his books last Saturday at the popular Emmaus House, Awka.

The author, who is a minister with the Evangelical Church of West Africa (ECWA), launched two books titled, ‘Origins of lgbo’ and ‘Replacing  Faulty ideologies’, which x-rays the cultural heritage, history and philosophical  ideologies of lgbo people.

Speaking at the occasion,Igwelweka 111 of Obosi, the reviewer of the book, ‘Origin of Ndigbo’, explained that generational ideas imbedded in the book describes the lgbos as descendants of the Black Jews of Africa.

He also explained that Omenala means the traditions of the land,

“The author teaches that God is a special being that teaches morals, discipline and acceptability and admonished that the instructions of the Word of God to substitute the traditions of the land making reference to Exodus Chapter 22.”

The traditional ruler pinpointed salient words that distinguishes the lgbo dialect which includes, O di aso, O no ebenile, O puruiche.

Also,ProfIkechukwuOkedo explained that the book, ‘ Replacing Faulty Ideologies’ is made up of 333 pages. He recalled that children and relatives source their guides from the traditions and ballads told from generations down.

He recommended the book for research to higher institutions, students and teachers of religion, research institute and libraries.

On his part, Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred  Achebe reiterated the need for lgbos to know and understand their origin.

“A man who doesn’t know his history is  bound to be lost,” he said.

He explained that Omenani is customs and traditions of the people, a belief system and culture. We must appreciate our ideology and philosophy as a people and descent of Jews. 

“The foundation of Christianity is to believe in God.Secondly, the administration of communion and belief that Christ died and ascended to heaven.

“The communion in lgbo culture is the breaking of kolanuts as a symbol of sharing. We, as a people share same philosophy, ” he stated.

Supporting, EzeEnugwuUkwu of Nri applauded the author for launching the book at the times required to revive and reinvent history and culture.

He appealed to government at all levels to ensure that the lgbo language is taught to avoid extinction.

On his part, lgweAguleri, Eze Mike ldigo reiterated the need for appreciation of one’s culture and language. He explained the concept of the Omenani and Odinala, saying Odinala is the norms set up by the supreme creator, while Omenani refers to the practice of such.

Meanwhile, Bishop of Awka, Catholic Diocese, Most Revd. Dr. ChukwuemekaEzeokafor, appreciated the author for the honour bestowed on him. He advised that the books be made into soft copies and placed in the internet to gain wider readership.

The prelate, represented by the Education Secretary, Catholic Diocese of Awka    Rev Fr Maximus Okonkwo,emphasised the need for parents, guardians, civil servants and professionals to revive and imbibe good reading culture.

Bishop, Province of the Niger, Anglican Communion, Most Rev.  Alexander Ibezim, applauded the resilience of the author in accomplishing the works. He maintained the need to revisit Igbo culture and history.

“This book is to rediscover and remind us of our identity and roots, thereby positioning us for  greater glory, ” he stated 

Anambra State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism,Don Onyenji, said the book elucidates the journey of the lgbo people. Heemphasised the need for festive celebrations like New Yam Festivals and other cultural festivals to propagate the spread of the language. He assured that the Soludo legacy-driven administration is focused on spearheading the reintroduction of lgbo language as a subject in schools within the state.

Chairman of the occasion and CEO,Muzzy Entertainment World, High Chief AzubuikeEkweozor, commended the author for his work which is timely and educative.

He said it is imperative to advise parents, academicians and research centres to adopt the book as a reference study for historical archives.

In his vote of thanks, the author, Rev Canon Charles Ekweozor, thanked all forhonouring the invitation. He explained that the books intended to redirect,inform, and enlighten the people of their ancient history. “East is regarded as the land of the rising sun, a place of life. Eastern people are considered as a special breed of species and lgbos are the East.

The event had dignitaries and stakeholders, traditional rulers, lecturers, politicians, professionals and lgbo advocates in attendance.