Tradition Takes Centre Stage, As Community Initiates New Age Grade

It is widely believed that our traditions represent a critical piece of our culture as they help form the structure and foundation of our families and society. They remind us that we are part of a history that defines our past, shapes who we are today and who we are likely to become.
Once we ignore the meaning of our tradition we are in danger of damaging the underpinning of our identity. It is probably on this premise, that the people of ‘Rumuolo’ in Emohua community roles out their ancient drums and other musical instruments to initiate a new age grade into the community in line with the ancient culture and tradition of the community.
The event which takes an interval of three years was held on Sunday May 9, 2021 at Rumuche-Emohua as the community initiated over one hundred youths into age grade amid music, dance and merriment. The event attracted a large crowd of relatives friends, and well wishers who came to witness the historic tradition.
Speaking with The Tide at the traditional event, the Chairman (Eze Ukwu) of the new age grade (Ukwu Ovugwu Eli Oloh), Mr. Orji Eze said, “The traditional and cultural event which takes place after every three years interval is symbolic and very important in the lives of every well meaning youth as it symbolises maturity, transformation from a youth to an adult and the imitation qualifies you to participate in the affairs of the community”.
He described the days event as a dream come true as he urged members of the new age grade to see their initiation as an opportunity to contribute to the development of the community.
He maintained as the first among equals he would ensure that members remained respectful to their elders, law abiding, dictated to community services such as security of lives and property, environmental sanitation and community development projects and programmes, above all to ensure unity and peaceful co-existance among members.
Mr. Orji noted that as the youngest age grade in the community, a lot is expected from them in terms of service to the community and promised that they would live up to the expectations.

By: Jacob Obinna