The Obi of HRH Igwe Innocent Elochukwu Obodoakor, was agog with festivities yesterday in Agulu, in celebration of the new yam harvest according to the yearly traditional calendar. The ceremony symbolizes the climax of the harvesting season, which in this case involves the chief crop, yam and also serves as an avenue for get-together among families, relatives and friends to appreciate the abundance of life and success.
Leading the royal and traditional rites to welcome the new yam in Agulu, Igwe Obodoakor thanked all invited guests and prayed for the peace of the community, state and nation. Flanked by his wife, Ocheze Mary Obodoakor, the traditional ruler was hopeful that Agulu will witness another round of celebration in grandeur come next year.
The national coordinator of Association of People Living with Sickle Cell Disorder, and director of Sickle Cell Orphanage and Underprivileged Home Agulu, Mrs Aisha Edward Maduagwu, was handy and in celebration mood too, as she happily joined millions of ndi Agulu at home and diaspora to celebrate the coming of the new yam.
A special recognition was accorded the Sickle Cell Orphanage and Underprivileged Home Agulu when Mrs Maduagwu was given the floor to highlight her mission which was done to the applause of everyone gathered, it includes the eradication of sickle cell disease and a structural welfare support for vulnerable sickle cell children.
The occasion was attended by prominent individuals from all walks of life, and includes traditional rulers, as the Igwe’s of Obeledu, Neni, Umuawulu, were sighted in the spirit of brotherhood and solidarity. The ceremony also afforded the Igwe Agulu the opportunity to exercise his rights and bestow traditional titles on some worthy individuals whom had contributed immensely to the progress and development of Agulu. There were ample displays of cultural and traditional entertainment, with the high point being the reward of the best yam farmers, according to a competition where the biggest tubers were scaled and selected.
While commending the Association, Igwe Obodoakor also rallied support for the Orphaned sickle cell children in tune with his resolve to be an accommodating father and strong advocate against sickle cell disorder. He also reiterated the decision of the traditional ruling council which he chairs, to apportion three plots of land in Agulu, for the establishment of a sickle cell center, a project so desirous in the heart of the people living with sickle cell disorder.
In show of appreciation, Aisha accompanied by her husband, Edozie Maduagwu, prostrated before the traditional ruler and prayed for his never ending reign. Onowu Agulu, Chief Paulinus Aniagbaso also bestowed his blessings. The project will kick start effectively soon to give vehemence on the combined onslaught against the dreaded sickle cell disease. Other speakers at the occasion include Ide Agulu, Chief Dan Ogbuefi who has been consistent with his supports to assist sickle cell children.
