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From Idu Jude, Abuja
Chieftain of the Labour Party and candidate for Nnewi North/Nnewi South/Ekwusigo federal constituency, Hon. Anthony Okafor, and Igwe K. N Orizu, Igwe of Nnewi, along with other notable royal fathers, have jointly called for the preservation of Igbo traditions to prevent them from going into extinction.
The royal fathers, who made the call, recently, during the 2026 Afiaolu Nnewi New Yam Festival, appealed to the people, especially youths, not to abandon their culture for a Western lifestyle or exchange it for the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI).
Speaking during the occasion, Labour Party House of Representatives’ candidate, Hon. Okafor, stressed the need for cultural rediscovery across the entire Igbo land. He, however, said, “It is time for us to rediscover our culture, more especially the Igbo language that is going extinct. I would also like to stress that people without culture and a distinct language are conquered people. Let’s make it a point of responsibility to teach our children, more especially those in the diaspora. We should also encourage teaching of the Igbo language in schools, as it used to be in the past. This is going to be my duty call when I get the House as a member of parliament”.
The highlight of the occasion for the 2026 Afiaolu Nnewi Festival provided a memorable setting for a significant moment in the political journey of Hon. Anthony Okafor, the Labour Party flag bearer for the Nnewi North, Nnewi South and Ekwusigo Federal Constituency of Anambra State in the forthcoming 2027 election.
Among the many personalities and colourful moments captured during the festival was a striking endorsement of the LP candidate by HRH Igwe K.N.O. Orizu, Igwe of Nnewi Kingdom, who offered prayers and blessings for the Nnewi son’s political journey.
The event, also witnessed by other prominent personalities, including Obi Afam Charles Obi of Uruagu, stood out as a powerful blend of tradition, community, and political aspiration.
