Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, former governor, Sam Egwu, and the Vice Chancellor of Ebonyi State University, Prof. Michael Awoke, have called for urgent efforts to revive the Igbo culture and language to prevent them from going into extinction.

They made the call during a cultural carnival and art exhibition held at the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities Hall, Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki.

The event, organised by Ike-Elechi Ogba Foundation, aimed at showcasing African and Nigerian culture, with particular emphasis on Ebonyi State, while fostering partnerships with stakeholders to preserve Igbo heritage.

Leader of the group and Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics), Prof. Ike-Elechi Ogba, said the initiative was designed to promote and preserve the rich cultural heritage of the Igbo people.

“We are showcasing African culture, Nigerian culture, but most importantly, Ebonyi people’s culture, to tell the world that Ebonyi has a history that predates modern times,” he said.

The event also featured an art exhibition and the launch of a book titled Echoes of a Regal Throne.

Speaking at the event, Governor Nwifuru, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Grace Umezuruike, said the state government was making efforts to sustain Igbo culture, particularly the language.

He also raised concerns over attacks and killings of traditional rulers, stressing the need for their protection.

“We understand the importance of protecting lives and property, particularly those of our traditional rulers. Their lives must not be taken lightly,” he said.

In his remarks, Egwu described the killing of traditional rulers as unfortunate and unacceptable, noting that they remain custodians of culture and tradition.

Represented by former Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dr. John Otu, he advocated legal backing for the protection of traditional rulers.

“If security is provided for political office holders, there is no reason traditional rulers should not enjoy the same level of protection.”

The National and State Assemblies should enact laws to guarantee their security,” he said.

Also speaking, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Awoke, represented by Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Michael Aja Nwachukwu, commended the foundation for promoting Igbo culture and tradition.

The foundation empowered artists with over ?1.5 million during the exhibition, noting that the initiative forms part of the Ogbaekirigwe Legacy Project aimed at preserving cultural heritage in the South-East.

In his contribution, President of One Youth Global, Uchechukwu Agbo, called for stronger collaboration between government and non-governmental organisations to ensure the preservation of cultural heritage in Ebonyi, Nigeria and across Africa. (Vanguard)

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