By Chinwendu Agoha (Society/Governance Reporter)
It was a moment of stock-taking, reflections and outright fun as the indigenes of Oguta Ameshi based in Abuja under the umbrella of Oguta Community Development Union (OCDU) decided to celebrate their end of the 2023 year party in a unique way.
Guests arrived for party in glamorous Oguta native attires as indicated in the invitation.
The event was organized by the Abuja branch of the association and held at the Public Service Institute of Nigeria (PSIN), along Kubwa Road, Abuja. The party kicked-off with the Master of Ceremony inviting some eminent sons and daughters to the high table. Prayers where said, followed by the speech of the out-going Chairman of Abuja chapter, Mr. Ndubuisi Anene, who had been in the saddle for eleven years.
A wooden bowl of pounded yam and nsala soup: one of the major native delicacy of Oguta Ameshi served at the party
He used his brief speech to usher in and hand over to the new chairman who will paddle the affairs of OCDU, Abuja branch in the person of Mr. Ikemefuna Ohanyere. He encouraged the incoming Chairman to put the welfare of the people on top of his agenda.
In his response, Mr. Ohanyere agreed with his predecessor that the welfare and unity of Oguta people should be uppermost.
One unique aspect of this year's end of the year celebration, was that the organizers incorporated three different lectures to educate, enlighten and remind the young and old indigenes of Oguta their heritage.
One of speakers at the event lecture: Dr. Lilian Ohanyere
The three topics were:
- *Oguta Ameshi Cultural Identity Yesterday and Today, delivered by Dr. Lilian Ohanyere, the wife of the new Chairman, who, from all indications, lived up as a good host of the event. (See Powerpoint Presentation Attached Below)
- Parenting and African Perspective in line with Oguta's tradition and Culture delivered by Mrs Nwanyibuife Ochia Oriaku, a daughter of Oguta Ameshi and a seasoned teacher. (Click/Tap to OPEN ATTACHMENT)
- *A review of EFURU - a book written by Flora Nwapa, a renowned first generation female African literary writer and indigine of Oguta who is now deceased. This was delivered by Mrs. Izukanne Nzeribe Nwankwo, a school proprietor. (Click/Tap to OPEN ATTACHMENT)
Mrs Izukanne Nzeribe Nwankwo, another speaker at the event.
All these brought out memories and nostalgia. The event was characterised by convivial interactions and fun with plenty of food and drinks served to the guests. Among the food delicacies that were served was the Oguta native pounded yam and nsala soup made with plenty of fish and other sea foods.
Mrs Nwanyibuife Ochia Oriaku, one of three speakers at the event.
To add more fun and excitement to the party, the Oguta traditional music was played to the enjoyment of the guests towards the closing ceremony to allow individuals dance and unwind. It was really a fun-filled event which many Oguta attendees will look forward to as the New Year 2024 beckons.
The young Oguta children who were part of the event were given customized writing books. The books contain some vital information about Oguta and her people.
Some dignitaries in attendance pledged their total support to the new Chairman. NNL
FESTIVAL SLIDESHOW BELOW:
