As We count down to the 10th Edition of Anam Gospel Conference which is our 10 Years Anniversary, Here is one of our Track Records:
REVITALIZING INE-EZI: A Resurrected Tradition in Ndi ANAM!
Introduction:
Ine-Ezi, the traditional marriage rite of Ndi Anam, faced the threat of extinction due to corruption and societal challenges. Recognizing the importance of preserving cultural heritage, a dedicated group ANAM Initiative a.k.a ANAM Transformation Movement, embarked on a transformative journey to revive, restructure, and reintegrate Ine-Ezi into the community with enhanced cultural values.
Background:
The traditional marrying-age rite of Ine-Ezi had gradually lost its significance in Ndi Anam, primarily due to corrupt practices that tainted its essence. The erosion of cultural values prompted a group of enthusiasts to delve into researching and understanding the historical context of Ine-Ezi, with the aim of restoring its authenticity.
Research and Transformation:
Extensive research was conducted to unravel the intricacies of Ine-Ezi, examining its roots, rituals, and symbolism. The findings formed the basis for a transformative process, where corrupt elements were identified and systematically eliminated. This restructuring involved consultations with elders, cultural experts, and community members to ensure the reintroduction of Ine-Ezi aligned with genuine cultural values.
This Research Team was led by Ifeoma Okonkwo Ugo Enebeli and Extensively written by Chuma Ozemene Ndubachibogu, BenSuccess Achor De Great and Tony Ugbagu.
Reintegration into Society:
With the support of the community, Ine-Ezi was reintegrated into the societal fabric of Ndi Anam, first by Unoma Tessy Aniesi-Ngoesina and the ceremony was graced with the attendance of The Traditional Ruler of Umuenwelum; HRH Igwe Okeke Obadile Okoye (Igwe Akataka of Umuenwelum Anam), the then House of Assembly Member representing Anambra West in ANambra State House of Assembly, Hon. Victor Jideofor Okoye, Anambra State Permanent Secretary Rt. Dr. @Emman Udeh Akpeh, the research Team and the above mentioned Writers, the Mothers of the organization: Mrs. Regina Uchebo and Mrs Nkeiru Ndive and the whole Team of ANAM Initiative, Families and the community Members both Young and Old and the event was anchored by Dozie Nwattah (Mc Walking Talking).
The transformed tradition now reflected the rich cultural heritage of the Ancestors/Progenitors, emphasizing values such as respect, value of women(expensive – atu igwe), unavailability of the bride from the market(Iwunya okpa na pam), unity of the maidens in agreement and announcement of the appearance of the Bride to be presented to the inlaws (DuuDuuDu by Opanja group), and community cohesion by supporting the young family with money inside and wears during Itu Oyi Nwa. The reintegration process aimed to foster a sense of pride and belonging among the residents of Ndi Anam.
Successful Implementations:
The efforts to revive Ine-Ezi have borne fruit, as six ladies namely:
Unoma Tessy Aniesi-Ngoesina, Nekky Ekwenze-Ochuba, Mbanugo Uyebo-Onuora, Ifeoma Okonkwo-Enebeli, Ngozi Aniesi-Odinaka and Ijeoma Chigbata-Kannaya have successfully undergone the restructured traditional marriage rite. The reintroduction of Ine-Ezi was met with widespread excitement and enthusiasm, with community members expressing joy at witnessing the restoration of their cultural roots.
Community Response:
The community’s response to the revitalized Ine-Ezi has been overwhelmingly positive. Residents have embraced the renewed tradition, recognizing its role in preserving the unique cultural identity of Ndi Anam. The successful implementations have become catalysts for further cultural revitalization initiatives, fostering a sense of pride and connection among the people.
Conclusion:
The resurrection of Ine-Ezi stands as a testament to the resilience of cultural heritage in the face of challenges. The collaborative effort to research, transform, and reintegrate this traditional marriage rite has not only preserved a valuable cultural practice but has also strengthened the sense of identity and unity within the community of Ndi Anam in the sacred ceremony of marriage.
Photos…..
you can watch some of the ceremonies via our youtube channel www.youtube.com/@OfficialAnamTV
Unoma Tessy Aniesi-Ngoesina.