The Igbo community gathered at Obu Gad in Enugwu Aguleri, Anambra State, to mark the 2024 World Eri Festival, known locally as “Olili Obibia Eri.” This annual celebration, hosted by Eze Chukwuemeka Eri of Enugwu Aguleri, commemorates the arrival of Eri, the legendary forefather of the Igbo people, believed to be the son of Gad, descendant of Jacob, who first settled near the Agbanabo Ezu N’Omabala River.
The festivities began on the first Eke day of the lunar calendar’s eighth month, with Eze Eri, accompanied by traditional leaders, cabinet members, and Ndi Aguleri, visiting the Agbanabo Ezu N’Omabala River to offer prayers for the Igbo race. During the prayers, Eze Eri thanked God for life and success, reminding the Igbo people to honor their roots and uphold their cultural values. He sprinkled holy water over attendees, blessing them and praying for unity.
Back at Obu Gad, Eze Eri spoke out against marginalization faced by the Igbo people, calling for the release of IPOB leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. He urged unity within the community and condemned those exploiting the political situation for unlawful activities.
Representing the gathering of traditional rulers, Igwe Lawrence Nwofia of Eziagulu-Otu Aguleri encouraged Ndi Igbo to foster love and unity to build a strong Igbo nation. Anambra State’s Commissioner for Power and Water Resources, Engineer Julius Chukwuemeka, also highlighted the importance of cultural preservation among youth and praised Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s dedication to reviving tourism in the state.
Nollywood legend and Idu Eri Royal Cabinet Chairman, Chief Ugezu Ugezu, emphasized the significance of Obu Gad as the spiritual center for the Igbo people and urged all Igbo to honor it as their ancestral home. Other notable attendees, including Professor Kate Omenugha, Acting Vice-Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, and Chief Mrs. Uju Edochie, stressed the need to preserve the Igbo language and cultural heritage.
During the festival, Eze Eri bestowed chieftaincy titles on distinguished Igbo individuals, including Ambassador Onyinyechukwu Uwaechia and Princess Divine Nwakoby, for their contributions to their communities. The event also welcomed African American and diasporan communities with Igbo heritage, underscoring the global impact of Igbo culture.
The festival concluded with cultural displays, traditional masquerade performances, and tributes to Eze Eri, highlighting the rich traditions and unity of the Igbo people.
