By Chinyere Nwaneri
A book entitled, ‘Ogwa Anunu Umumgbe: A groundwork of history and culture of Ogwa people’ authored by Dr Chidi Ukomadu of Federal University Lokoja has been launched in the Ogwa clan last weekend.
The book launch which attracted the crème de la crème of the community was a revised edition of the first publication which debuted in 2012.
In his presentation, the key note address speaker, Prof Magnus Chidi Onuoha, (Executive Director, West African Economic Development Institute (WAGEDI), Gregory University, Uturu, Okigwe, identified some contending issues militating against development.
According to him, loss of social capital with consequential increase in deprivation, stress, unhappiness, crime, and indifference to preservation of our historical and cultural heritage, as well as eradication of the obnoxious tradition and cultural practices Ogwa community is contending with.
As a result he went on to call for a strategic development plan weaved by the various stakeholders which would yield such results as Ogwa Green city, Ogwa Housing Estate, Ogwa Industrial Hub, Ogwa-Orodo University, Ogwa Entertainment Hub, etc.
The chairman of the occasion, Chief Myke Onwusiribe, a retired principal and strong community leader, described Ogwa as a great community that has acquitted itself in the production of intellectuals in various field of endeavours such as the author.
Reviewing the book, Prof. Hillary Ekemam, asked the readers not to view the work as an academic exercise but something to be proud of because of its rich academic content. He called on the guests to patronize the author.
Engr (Sir) Ben Uhuegbulem in unveiling the book extolled the sterling qualities of the author whom he described as co-ordinated in his approach to life. He urged Ogwa people to extend the copies to others ‘’so that they can have knowledge of our background’’
Bishop Chuka S. Ekemam, prayed for the growth of Ogwa while blessing the author. Other indigenes that graced the occasion include Dr. Chima Nworie, Engr. Emeka Ekeanyanwu, Chief Everest Ezihe, Sir Ben Emekowa among others
