The Ifulauche Ukejiama ceremony in Obayi Ovim marked a historic leadership transition. The event showcased the age-grade system as a cornerstone of Igbo culture, driving unity and progress in Isuikwuato LGA.
The serene community of Obayi Ovim in Isuikwuato Local Government Area of Abia State became a center of cultural pride and celebration on January 4, 2025, as it marked the Ifulauche Ukejiama ceremony. This age-old tradition symbolizes the seamless transfer of community leadership from one age grade to another, a practice deeply rooted in Igbo culture.
The event showcased the vibrant traditions of the Obayi community, with the Ojimba Age Grade assuming leadership responsibilities from the outgoing Ukejiama Age Grade. It was a momentous occasion attended by notable dignitaries and stakeholders, highlighting the importance of unity and development within the community.
The ceremony brought together an array of prominent figures, including:
– Pastor Caleb Ajagba, PhD, Chief of Staff to the Governor, representing Governor Alex Otti.
– Maj. Gen. Edwin Daye Atiegoba (Rtd), Chairman of the event.
– Lt. Gen. Onyeabo Azubuike Ihejirika (Rtd), former Chief of Army Staff and host of the event.
– Maj. Gen. (Sen.) Ike Nwachukwu (Rtd), the Father of the Day.
– Hon. (Dame) Justice Florence Ikwuoma Duroha-Igwe (Rtd), the Mother of the Day.
Other dignitaries in attendance included : The Attorney General of Abia State Ikechukwu Uwanna, Chief Ray Nkemdirim “Ugwumba”, Justice Chinwe Onyeabo, Kenneth Ahia SAN, Chief Achi Ukonu, Maj. General Maduegbu (Rtd), Maj. General Nwaoga (Rtd), Maj. General Ude, Maj. General Chioba, AVM Oyike, Air Commodore Ifezue, Navy Commodore Duroha, and Commander Igbokwe, among others.
Dr. Iheme Ndukwe, a member of the incoming Ojimba Age Grade, offered the opening prayer and later gave the vote of thanks, praying for the sustenance of the good works of the present Abia State government under Governor Alex Otti.
While presenting his paper, Architect Sunny Onwuchekwa delved into the historical and social significance of the age-grade system in Obayi. He explained, “The age-grade system in Obayi is as old as the community itself, dating back to times beyond living memory. It serves as a framework for development, peacekeeping, cultural preservation, and mutual assistance.”
He further noted the system’s enduring relevance, describing it as a unifying mechanism that ensures orderly transitions in leadership and promotes the community’s overall well-being.
Delivering his remarks, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, representing Governor Alex Otti, praised the community for its commitment to cultural preservation and effective organization.
He described the age-grade system as a hallmark of Igbo identity, saying: “The age-grade system is ‘Eji Mara Ndi Igbo,’ a unique cultural practice that has fostered development and unity for generations. I commend Obayi for maintaining this tradition with such excellence.”
Ajagba assured the community that Governor Otti is committed to supporting initiatives that uphold cultural heritage and promote development. He concluded with a message of optimism, stating, “By December 2025, Obayi and Isuikwuato will have achieved even greater heights.”
In his remarks, the Father of the Day, Maj. Gen. (Sen.) Ike Nwachukwu (Rtd), commended the people of Obayi Ovim, noting that Ndi Igbo in general and Ovim in particular have rich cultural heritage. He highlighted that Ovim remains one indivisible community, despite the adoption of five “autonomous communities” in recent years to ensure sufficient representation. He urged other communities in Ovim and Ala Igbo to emulate Obayi by reviving and promoting the age-grade system.
In his speech on behalf of the incoming Ojimba Age Grade, Lt. Gen. Onyeabo Azubuike Ihejirika (Rtd), CFR, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead. He assured the community of their commitment to supporting progressive initiatives while condemning any form of wrongdoing.
“We pledge to uphold all that is good and to speak out against evil as we take on this responsibility,” he declared, emphasizing the age grade’s role in fostering development and maintaining peace in Obayi.
The Ifulauche Ukejiama event was a reminder of the enduring power of the age-grade system as a cornerstone of Igbo society. It reflects not only a mechanism for governance and development but also a tool for cultural preservation and social cohesion.
