Soludo, Achebe, Others to Grace Amawbia Mornach’s Last Ofala

By Praise Chinecherem

Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo and the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe are among the high profiled dignitaries expected to grace the funeral ceremony of late traditional ruler of Amawbia in Awka South Local Government Area, Igwe Chinyere Nnaemeka Molokwu this weekend.

Other prominent personalities expected at the weeklong event include Royal Fathers from within and outside the state, clergymen, party chieftains and various age grades in Amawbia.
A 35- member burial committee headed by Dr. Ikem Odumodu was already putting finishing touches on the programme to ensure a successful last Ofala for the late Monarch who joined his ancestors early this year.
Addressing newsmen on the preparations, younger brother to the late monarch, Sir Nche Molokwu described him as humble and disciplinarian who initiated cultural revival and traditions that impacted on his subjects. He said although his late brother did not stay long on the throne, he achieved so much in the revival of the customs and traditions of Amawbia.

Molokwu explained that the process of selecting the next monarch for the community would begin after a successful mourning period. “His life and times as a businessman and staffer of an Oil Company was not only eventful, but his reign, though short lived brought unity in the community.
“Upon winning the Okpalaigwe Amawbia, used the position to heal past wounds, initiate cultural revival and foster unity among Amawbia indigenes.

He could not celebrate his first Ofala before his death, but the ceremony will be performed by his first son before the Igwe’s last Ofala.
His added: “Okpalaigwe’s death was a big shock to the entire Anambra community and his fellow traditional rulers. We have, however, taken it as the necessary journey of life which everyone must go through.
“His reign was short, but we cannot question God. Our joy is that Igwe did his best to unite the community which is why there was peace and harmony during his reign.
Odumodu, former Director General of the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON) said arrangements had been concluded for staging the last Ofala festival in line with the community’s tradition.

Odumodu, who spoke through Sir Emma Nwokoye, hinted that activities would commence on Wednesday, August 24 through Saturday, August 27, 2022. He said, “Among other activities lined up for the event, interdenominational church service will hold tomorrow, 25th August from 10am at Ugbogiliga palace Amawbia, after a 21 canon shots today, Wednesday, to herald the commencement of the last Ofala festival, followed by condolence visits.
“On Friday 26th August 2022, there will be another 21 canon shots, followed by Ufvie music and condolence visits by Ozo Amawbia, Okpaligwe Amawbia Cabinet, Nze/Ekwu Umueze, Nze Amawbia society, all age grades in Amawbia, as well as Umuada Amawbia.

“On Saturday 27th August 2022, there will be another 21 canon shots and cultural displays, after which there will be a Royal procession led by Prince Molokwu.

“Afterwards, the Prince will ascend the throne at the Palace with full traditional Ofala regalia seated between Osejeze and the President General of Amawbia Town Union, Cabinet members, Ndi Nze na Ozo Amawbia.
“The event will also feature last Ofala dance by Prince Molokwu and Igwe’s Cabinet, as well as turning of Okpaligwe’s seat with 21 canon shots to signify the end of reign of Igwe Chinyelu Nworah-Molokwu, and the declaration of vacancy for the Okpaligwe throne. Outing church service at St. Peter’s Anglican Church Amawbia by Royal family and friends will mark the end of the last Ofala festival.”