His Royal Highness, Igwe. Dr Amb. Patrick Okoro – Chukwu nwe-eze nke mbụ na Mkpunano Kingdom Nsukka, Enugu state – had a virtual meeting with Obinwannem Foundation Worldwide (represented by its director Ugwu Okechukwu); covered by Obinwannem media director [Nwada Chinedu Nnaji] in Nsukka, Enugu state, and compiled by our general secretary, Mazi Osita Benjamin Jnr Chinonso.
Mazi Ugwu Okechukwu started by greeting the king in their Nsukka dialect as the true son of the land. Mazi Ugwu Okechukwu, while introducing himself to the traditional ruler, and detailing his vision for Umu Igbo, narrated his family background and the names of all his family members (Chigbo, Obiageli, Ukamaka and Chidubem). Those were his siblings from (his) immediate parents James and Josephine Ugwu (all from Amaji Umukashi, Nsuka in Enugu state).
Mazi Ugwu also explained what actually was his motivation and what prompted him to action. His motivation, according to him, was mainly his experience in the Nigerian political system which he had been involved in the past and also all his involvement and activities in the National Youth Council of Nigeria; “the conditions our people has been subjected in different parts of the world like slaves, and finally because of the fact that western religion(s) and culture have over-shadowed our own tradition and culture which has made the traditional beliefs of our forefathers and the laws of our land to be viewed as ‘evil and erroneous'”.
Furthermore, Mazi Ugwu made it clear to the Traditional ruler that he has not come for division in any form, rather he has come to unit all the Igbo sons and daughters that are scattered all over the world under the umbrella, Obinwannem, which is a very strong bound given to him by Chukwu Okike Abiama
Subsequently, he mentioned to the King, his works in the movement of Biafra freedom (under the banner of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB); having served at both district and national level at IPOB in South Korea and Ukraine, respectively – adding that he remained a strong pillar in IPOB, not excluding other Igbo groups and associations – for the promotion of our culture and natural heritage.
He said it was in the course of his service in IPOB that led him towards instituting Obinwannem movement. “Because if actually, we must achieve this dream, then we must start from ourselves and our homes (makana anebido n ụlọ mara mma pụta ihe), which is what Obinwannem stand for, (Truth, Peace, Unity and Trust),” Mazi Ugwu Okechukwu said.
The Traditional Ruler (HRH Igwe. Dr. Amb. Patrick Okoro), during the discussion, declared his full support to both Mazi Ugwu Okechukwu as his own son and to Obinwannem Ndị Igbo Global for their vision and courage. He also accepted to be the traditional father (Grand Patron) of Obinwannem movement, saying that everything about the association gave him joy and hope. He further encouraged Mazi Okechukwu Ugwu to always reach out for his support and guidance. I am always committed to making this vision from Chukwu Okike Abiama, a reality with all the members of the Igwe-in-council whom are here in this meeting,” His Royal Highness stated.
The traditional ruler after declaring his stance, prayed for Mazi Ugwu Okechukwu as the visionary leader of the great movement and also for Obinwannem worldwide and all ụmụ Igbo that is scattered all over the world; with Ọjị (kola nut) – which is a symbol of divine connection to our forefathers during prayers; Nzu – which is a symbol of purity and peace. Also in the name of the land and all the spirits of the land. all was in the mighty name of Chukwu Okike Abiama, Issseee… Iseeee. Iseeee.
Covered by
Nwada Nnaji Chinedu
(women leader Obinwannem Enugu)
Translated & Compiled by
Osita Benjamin jnr chinonso
(General secretary Obinwannem Global)
