CULTURE

First Ofala: Akpugo agog as Igwe Nwatu celebrates coronation ofala January 2

Maureen Ikpeama8 months ago8 months ago4286 mins

Ancient kingdom of Obuno Akpugo in Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State is set to witness a grand celebration as His Royal Highness, Igwe Sir Jacob Chukwuma Nwatu (KSJI, JP), is formally crowned the Traditional Ruler of his community in a colourful ceremony that will also mark his first Ofala Festival, on January 2, 2025.

Igwe Nwatu, an entrepreneur and investor, ascended the throne of his forefathers in September 2023 when the state government presented a staff of office to him in a ceremony that drew encomium across the various sections of the community which described his ascendancy as a round peg in a round hole.

Pix: HRH Igwe Jacob And wife,HRH Ugoeze

Before his coronation, the revered traditional ruler had held different community-based positions where he championed the development of Akpugo by attracting projects such as electricity and healthcare facilities.

Born in 1947 into the noble family of late Chief Nwatu Onyeabor of Nvuaja Obuno Akpugo, who was a successful businessman, farmer and politician, Igwe Nwatu has dedicated his entire life to helping humanity and achieving uncommon feats in his career.

Igwe Nwatu did his primary education at Mburubu, Nomeh, among other schools because of his journey with his guardian who was an astute teacher before venturing into the automobile industry where he surmounted the challenging business environment to becoming and employer of labour and a major dealer with SCOA, Niger Motors, R.T. Briscoe and UAC.

He founded one of the largest conglomerates, Jac Ent. Nig. Ltd which majors in automobile, construction, consultancy and general services in Nigeria.

The traditional ruler, who is happily married to Ugoeze Mercy Chioma Nwatu (nee Nnaji) and blessed with children and grandchildren, had also headed some key social bodies such as the Akpugo Leaders of Thought, Akpugo Progressive Union, Ubureke Ukure General, Udo Social Club of Nigeria, treasurer, and Ohanaeze Ndigbo Enugu State.

The coronation and Ofala ceremony, which promises to be a colourful display of the Igbo rich culture and tradition, will take place on Thursday January 2, 2025 at the Boys Secondary School, Akpugo, also known as Akpugo Boys, starting with a Holy Mass at 10:00 am, and followed by the coronation and Ofala festival at 1:00 pm.

The Executive Governor of Enugu State, His Excellency, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, will be the Special Guest of Honour at the ceremony.

According to the Town Union and the Igwe’s Cabinet, invited dignitaries expected to grace the much-expected festival include people from different walks of life

The presence of eminent personalities expected to grace the occasion will add glamour to the occasion and also make it memorable in the history of the state.

As the people of Akpugo prepare for this grand celebration, the atmosphere is already filled with excitement and anticipation. The coronation ceremony and first Ofala of Igwe Jack is indeed a momentous occasion that will be etched in the memories of the people for a long time.

The spectacular festival which will blend tradition and resonate cultural heritage will feature cultural displays, traditional dances, masquerades, music and traditional Nkanu folk ballads, as well as other exhibitions that will make it unforgettable.

The unique cultural heritage and traditions of Obuno Akpugo Ancient Kingdom are expected to make this event a standout celebration as visitors will be enthralled with the cultural tourism Akpugo has to offer the state.

Igwe Nwatu and his wife are blessed with six children, among them Hon. Chidi Nwatu, a former Chairman of Nkanu West LGA, and Hon. Arch. Uche Nwatu, the Special Adviser to the Governor of Enugu State on Project Development and Implementation.