In the heart of Abia State, nestled within the rich cultural tapestry of the Igbo community, lies the quaint town of Uturu. Here, a unique and time-honoured tradition known as “Ikwa ozu okpokoro” is observed with great reverence. This tradition is a sacred practice that is focused on the burial rights of their great-great-grandfathers. The guardian of this knowledge and correspondent for Obinwannem News in Abia State, Mazi Ikechukwu Agbajie, fondly known as “Ọnụ kwuru njọ g’ekwu nma,” shares insights into this intriguing ritual.
“Ikwa ozu okpokoro,” also known as the “great-great-grandfather burial,” holds immense significance within the Uturu community. It serves as a way to rectify the burial rites of ancestors who were laid to rest many decades ago without the appropriate rituals being conducted. The belief is that such ancestors may not rest in peace until these rites are performed.
Participation in this age-old tradition is not taken lightly. It is a privilege earned through one’s familial lineage. To qualify, one must have completed the same ritual for their own great-grandfather’s burial. This requirement highlights the importance of maintaining a deep connection to one’s ancestry and traditions.
It’s important to note that being a Christian does not grant immunity to interfere or participate in “Ikwa ozu okpokoro.” The sanctity of this ritual is beyond religious affiliations, and outsiders must respect this tradition. Touching or interfering with any aspect of the event can have dire consequences, as it is believed that anyone who disrespects the ritual will face instant repercussions, even death.
Central to the “Ikwa ozu okpokoro” tradition is the sacrificial offering of nkịta and epele, which holds immense spiritual significance. These sacrifices are intended to appease the ancestors and ensure the peaceful transition of the great-great-grandfather’s spirit.
In a rapidly changing world, the preservation of traditions like “Ikwa ozu okpokoro” is crucial to maintaining the cultural identity and spiritual connection of communities like the Uturu people. Mazi Ikechukwu Agbajie’s insights serve as a reminder of the deep-rooted customs that continue to shape the lives and beliefs of the people of Uturu in Abia State.
