Ila Oso Uzuakoli: “Despite being a man of God, I support my people’s culture but….” – Rev Okorie

A clergy man, Rev. P.J Okorie has harped on the need to encourage the practice of Nigerian traditions especially Uzuakoli culture, saying it is a way of bringing back the memories of our forefathers.

While stating that local traditional practices can also help in forgetting what he called evil machination from the English tradition, the educationist emphasized that children exhibit the right conduct when exposed to the traditional discipline.

Speaking in an interview with ABN TV on Sunday, the clergy said even though by the virtue of his ordination as a minister of God, he may not directly take part in traditional practices that appear fetish, he expressed readiness to support every effort that will help in bringing back the dying cultures of Uzuakoli, adding that they teach moral especially to the younger generation.

He stated that he will not shy away from fighting things that are fetish in the tradition of Ila Oso Uzuakoli while at the same time promoting practices that are instrumental to growth, development and excellent morality of the people.

Explaining the concept of Ila Oso Uzuakoli, Rev. Okorie disclosed that it is an annual event in Uzuakoli, Bende local government area of Abia state that serves as a symbol of unity among the people.

He stated that the practice helps people identify those who are of their age grade, maintaining that it is a way of instilling discipline.

According to him, on the Eke market day of the people of Uzuakoli, the tradition demands that no one is expected to go the farm to harvest yams, cassava or other cash crops.
He explained that everyone is expected to go to Eke market to conduct their business, adding that it helps in checkmating those who may want to harvest from other people’s farms.

See photos from the event…