Unity in Nri would herald end to kidnappings, killings in South East, say stakeholders       

The Ancient Kingdom of Nri, Anaocha Local Council of Anambra State, was agog at  the weekend, following a peaceful celebration of “Ilo mmuo” (New Yam Festival)  by warring camps, with stakeholders saying that unity would transcend to other communities and quicken end to killings, kidnappings and other criminal activities in Igbo land.        

Addressing the gathering from Ikpo Eze (royal throne) during the 2023 AD Ilo-mmuo Ndigbo event, the traditional ruler of Nri, His Majesty Ezenri Obidiegwu Onyesoh (Nrienwelana II) appreciated the presence of the prestigious Nze na  Ozo Society (noble ruling class), led by Oba Larry Nwagwu, and Peace Accord Committee, led by Ozo Ifeanyi Okonkwo, among others, for their efforts to reunite with the palace and  broker peace.         
    
The Ezenri,  who spoke through his son and Regent of Nri, Prince Ikenna Onyesoh (Idebukeaku), observed that the event,  coming after the February distribution of yam seedlings to Ndigbo and declaration open of farming season, would-start the ceremonies of New Yam Festival in other Nri hegemonic communities and across Igbo land.

He said that this was in line with the position of Nri Ancient Kingdom as the custodian of Igbo culture and traditions. He dismissed the insinuation that “Ilo mmuo” is idol worshipping, clarifying that it is a  sacrificial event to celebrate the yearly first fruit harvest of thanksgiving to God for a bountiful harvest within  Onwa Asato (the 8th lunar month), which is September, in Roman Calendar.