On Saturday, October 20, the Ugbabe clan in Obollo, Udenu Local Government Area of Enugu State was thrown into celebration as the Oko Ugbabe title, which has been vacant for 23 years, after the demise of the last holder, Chief Bernard Eze, was graciously conferred on Ozor Enyinna Odumegwu Ogbonna.
The celebration continued on a bigger scale eight days after, specifically on October 28, when the new Oko threw a lavish merriment as the customs demanded. The event which took place at the compound of the of the Onyishi (eldest man) in Ugbabe, Chief Patrick Ugwuabah, attracted notable sons and daughter of the clan from far and near, who came to witness the revival of an ancient tradition that has not been witnessed for over two decades.
Ugbabe is a name given to the first son of Olenyi, the patriarchal progenitor of Obollo people. It is the most populous clan of all Olenyi descendants, and its descendants spread across all walks of human endeavours. They are famed as the pride of Obollo land.
The Oko Ugbabe title is the highest traditional honor bestowed on any son of Ugbabe found worthy of the title. The prestigious title represents not only an individual’s lineage but also the rich heritage and cultural significance of the entire community. After a long 23-year interregnum since the passing of the last title holder, Chief Eze, the community eagerly awaited the emergence of a new Oko Ugbabe.
The ceremony began with a colourful procession led by Ugbabe Elders-in-Council, who donned traditional regalia, accompanied by a retinue of elders and chiefs from the Ugbabe clan. The procession wound its way into the venue, with enthusiastic onlookers eagerly anticipating the momentous occasion. Then followed the elegant entrance of the new Oko, who came in with the cultural music amid traditional paraphernalia.
On his arrival, the atmosphere was filled with excitement, heightened by the rhythmic beats of traditional drums and the joyful ululations of women. The compound, beautifully decorated, reflected the community’s enthusiasm and support for the new Oko Ugbabe, Ozor Ogbonna.
According to one of indigenes who fielded questions from newsmen, the ceremony was an affirmation of the title recipient by an assembly of respected Ugbabe elders, including traditional rulers, community leaders, and elders, who unanimously proclaimed Ozor Ogbonna as the rightful successor to the Oko Ugbabe title.
In his address, Chief Ugwuaba hailed the chosen one, highlighting his excellent character, commitment to community development, and dedication to upholding the traditions of Obollo land.
Addressing the gathering, the newly crowned Oko Ugbabe, Ozor Ogbonna, expressed gratitude to the community for the honor and pledged to carry out his responsibilities diligently. He acknowledged the legacy left behind by late Chief Eze, and promised to build upon it, saying, “I will use this title as a platform to unite our people, promote our cultural heritage, and contribute to the development of our community.”
Ozor Ogbonna is the Founder and CEO/MD of Odumegwu Constructions Ltd. He founded the company after his graduation from the Enugu State University of Science & Technology, Enugu. He had excellent educational upbringing, passing through highbrow schools in his formative years – Hillcrest Proprietary School, Nsukka, for his primary education, and Christ the King College, Abuja, for his secondary school.
A philanthropist par excellence, he has given out-of-pocket bursary and scholarship schemes to the less privileged members of the community. Over 20 indigent young men and women have benefited from his private empowerment schemes. He is also known to have uplifted scores of downtrodden through economic empowerment. Most Okada riders interviewed in Obollo Afor attributed their thriving transport services to him for giving them motorcycles free of charge.
The reception was splendid as the entire community gathered to honor the new Oko Ugbabe, expressing their joy through energetic dance performances, melodious cultural songs, and heartfelt prayers. Traditional delicacies were prepared, and guests were treated to a sumptuous feast, replete with traditional cuisines.
Numerous dignitaries attended the event, including government officials among whom is the Udenu Local Government Chairman, Solomon Onah, who came in company of Aninri and Igbo Eze-North local council chairmen, traditional rulers from neighboring communities, religious leaders, and representatives from various cultural organizations. Their presence symbolized the importance of the occasion and the respect accorded to the Ugbabe clan and the Obollo community.
The revival of the Oko Ugbabe title not only reconnects the present generation with their rich cultural history, it also serves as a catalyst for socioeconomic development within the community. The significance of the event cannot be overstated, as it reinforces the importance of preserving and promoting indigenous traditions in the face of modernization.
Post-coronation, Ozor Ogbonna is expected to play an instrumental role in ensuring the unity, progress, and development of the Ugbabe clan. With his ascendancy, the community looks forward to the implementation of various initiatives, which includes using his contacts to attract government attention and presence in the community. This will, in turn, help in empowering the youths, improving infrastructure, enhancing educational opportunities, and promoting healthcare services within the Ugbabe clan spread across Obollo Afor, Obollo Eke and Obollo Etiti.
As the festivities gradually came to a close by the twilight, a sense of pride and hope lingered in the hearts of the attendees. The coronation of Ozor Ogbonna as the new Oko Ugbabe signifies a renewed commitment to cultural heritage, unity, and progress in Obollo land. With a promising future ahead, the stage is set for the Ugbabe clan and the entire community to flourish under the leadership of the newly crowned traditional chieftain.