Recently, HRM, Eze (Dr) Douglas Okwara, OkwaraChukwu IV, Igwe and Paramount Ruler of Umuna Ancient Kingdom, Obi of Ebe – Asaa and Head of Isu Clan in Orlu LGA of Imo State celebrated 2022 Iriji festival entitled Iriji ‘Umuna.’
That day, the Orlu community rolled out drums as people from all walks of life converged in the ancient kingdom to join His Royal Majesty Eze OkwaraChukwu to celebrate the festival.
The ceremony held amidst pomp and pageantry on Sunday, August 28, 2022, at Ishi Obiukwu Egedeokpu – Umuna Ancient kingdom and witnessed an unprecedented turn out of indigenes of Umuna kingdom as well as their friends and associates.
In his remarks, HRM OkwaraChukwu who is also Chairman, South – East, National Council of Christian Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, on behalf of the Eze – in – Council and the entire people of Umuna Ancient kingdom, expressd immense gratitude to friends, and associates, who honoured him with their presence and gifts, during the 2022 Iri Ji (New Yam Festival) of his kingdom.
In his words, the Royal father said: “I am particularly pleased that the ceremony was very peaceful and rekindled the age long cultural heritage for which the Umuna Ancient kingdom is known for, which is anchored on love for one another, and respect for our culture, norms and values.
“I also appreciate the contributions of the various illustrious sons and daughters of Umuna Ancient kingdom for their selfless contributions to the success of the festival.
“Worthy of note is the donation of a brand new Toyota Highlander Jeep by Mr Ebere Nwosu, an Australian based Real Estate guru, to the palace. I pray that God Almighty would replenish and bless him, and others, who contributed in making the festival grand.
“It is imperative to state that during the festival, chieftaincy titles were conferred by me on deserving personalities who have contributed greatly to the socioeconomic development of Umuna Ancient kingdom. These personalities, and their titles are: Ambassador Declan Oguine, an accomplished hotelier and business mogul, who received the title of ‘Amadiohaozuzu’ of Umuna, the President General of Umueri Community, Ambassador (High Chief) Johnny Metchie, who bagged the title of ‘Ezi Igbo Nine 1 of Umuna’, the President / CEO, Ailes Group Ltd, Chief Mike Onuoha honoured with the title of ‘Durukpata ‘Aku 1’of Isu Clan, the President /CEO, Umuna Hotel & Suites, Prince Joe Okwara bestowed with the title of ‘Akajiugo’ na-Umuna Ancient kingdom and Chief Kenneth Onuigwe who was also honoured with the title of ‘Ugochinyere ‘ of Umuna.
“As the Paramount Ruler of Umuna Ancient kingdom and Head of the Isu Clan in Orlu LGA, Imo State, I once again, bless all those who honoured my people, and kingdom with their presence during our 2022 New Yam Festival . We will always appreciate you all,” he prayed.