Diaspora
Oru-Owerri Festival: A Showcase Of Traditional Christmas Of Owerri
Every July, the city of Owerri in Imo State, Nigeria, transforms into a vibrant epicenter of cultural festivities as the Igbo people of five traditional Owerri villages come together to celebrate the Oru-Owerri festival. Known as the “traditional Christmas” of the Owerri people, this festival commemorates the founding of Owere (Owerri) by Ekwem Oha Arugo in the 14th century. With roots tracing back to approximately 1463 AD, the Oru-Owerri festival is a week-long celebration that honors life, love, and unity among the Owere Nchi Ise community.
Understanding the Oru-Owerri festival requires delving into the history of the Owerri people. The festival’s origins can be traced back to the 14th century when Ekwem Oha Arugo, the progenitor of the Owerri people, established the community. Ekwem, who had five children, had a dispute with his kindred while living in Uratta, a location near present-day Owerri.
This conflict led Ekwem to self-imposed exile with his children, during which they settled in a forested area known as Ugwu-Ekwema after finding sustenance and water from the Otamiri River. His children, Amawom, Umurorojo, Umuodum, Umuoyima, and Umuonyeche, later formed the five villages that constitute the Owere Nchi Ise.
The Oru-Owerri festival is crucial in preserving the cultural identity of the Owerri people. It serves as a period of reflection, thanksgiving, and communal bonding. The festival showcases traditional dances, music, and rituals that have been passed down through generations, ensuring that the younger generation remains connected to their heritage. Additionally, the festival strengthens the social fabric of the community by fostering a sense of belonging and unity.
Owerri Municipality, often referred to as the cultural melting pot of Imo State, owes much of its vibrant cultural scene to the Oru-Owerri festival. The festival attracts visitors from various parts of Nigeria and beyond, making it a significant cultural and tourist attraction. The week-long celebration features a series of events, including the roasting and eating of special yams, which marks the commencement of the festivities. This tradition is deeply rooted in the historical journey of Ekwem and his children, symbolizing sustenance and survival.
The traditional ruler of Owerri, His Royal Highness, Eze Emmanuel Njemanze Osuruigbo V, plays a pivotal role in the Oru-Owerri festival. As the custodian of the culture and traditions of the Owerri people, his presence and participation in the festival are highly revered. Visiting dignitaries and important personalities make it a point to pay homage to the traditional ruler, signifying the respect and honor accorded to the cultural leadership in Imo State.
Over the next few days, the city comes alive with music, dance, and colorful processions. The Igbo people dress in their traditional attire, adorned with colorful beads and ornaments. The women wear beautiful wrappers and head ties, while the men wear traditional Igbo clothing. The festival is a celebration of life, love, and peace. It is a
time for the Igbo people to put aside their differences and come together as one. The festival is also a time for the people to honor their ancestors and pay homage to their heritage.
The highlight of the festival is the grand procession, where the Igbo people march through the streets, singing and dancing. The procession is led by the traditional ruler of Owerri, His Royal Highness, Eze Emmanuel Njemanze Osuruigbo V. He is a respected leader and a symbol of unity and strength for the Igbo people. As the festival comes to a close, the Igbo people gather to say farewell and to look forward to the next year’s celebration.
They leave with full hearts and a renewed sense of purpose, knowing that they are part of a larger community that values unity, love, and peace. In a world filled with division and strife, the Oru-Owerri festival is a beacon of hope and unity. It is a celebration of life, and it is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope and always something to celebrate.
The festival is a culturally significant event that showcases the Igbo people’s rich cultural heritage. It is a time for the people to come together and celebrate their shared values and traditions. The festival is also a time for the people to reflect on their history and the struggles of their ancestors.
The Oru-Owerri festival is a celebration of the Igbo people’s resilience and strength. It is a testament to their ability to come together and celebrate their shared humanity, even in the face of adversity. The festival is a reminder that unity and love are the keys to a happy and fulfilling life.
In conclusion, the Oru-Owerri festival is a celebration of life, love, and unity amongst the Igbo people. It is a culturally significant event that showcases the Igbo people’s rich cultural heritage and their resilience and strength. The festival is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope and always something to
celebrate.
Diaspora Watch Unveils 63rd Edition: A Global Mirror of Power, Politics and People
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The 63rd edition of Diaspora Watch Newspapers has hit the stands this week, bringing readers a compelling mix of global power plays, continental shifts, economic pursuits and cultural flashpoints.
From New York to Niamey, London to Lagos, the edition offers a panoramic view of unfolding events shaping the world and Africa’s place within it.
On the cover, U.S. politics takes centre stage as President Donald Trump, addressing the United Nations, boldly declares: “No President Has Done What I’ve Done.” In a dramatic twist on African geopolitics, Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger jointly announce their withdrawal from the International Criminal Court, condemning it as a “neo-colonial tool.”
Kenya’s President turns to America’s corporate giants, assuring investors of stability in a pitch to attract capital inflows. Nigeria equally seizes the moment, with the NNPC outlining ambitious upstream oil and gas expansion plans targeting $60 billion in investment. Across the Caribbean, CARICOM leaders rally at the UNGA 80, pressing hard for climate justice and a development agenda that cannot be ignored.
Europe is not left out of the storm: the Welsh First Minister pointedly shuns Trump’s banquet, fueling political ripples back home, while in Africa, Cameroon’s political dynasty faces unusual pressure as President Biya’s daughter openly calls on citizens to reject her father’s re-election bid. Elsewhere, Albania breaks new ground with the appointment of an AI “Minister” to combat corruption in public procurement — a move being hailed as futuristic governance.
On the health front, the World Health Organization issues a sobering warning, noting that slowing progress on non-communicable diseases and mental health is putting millions at risk globally.
Sports enthusiasts will find gripping drama on the back page, where Manchester United’s crisis-hit boss lays down the gauntlet with a blunt declaration: “My way or no way.”
Diaspora Watch 62nd Edition Is Here!
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The 62nd edition of Diaspora Watch Newspapers is out, delivering a hard-hitting blend of global politics, African affairs, diplomacy, business, health, and culture, with stories that cut across continents and shape conversations.
Leading the cover is a riveting headline from London, where Donald Trump’s UK visit takes a dramatic turn as he sidesteps the brewing Mandelson–Epstein controversy, raising eyebrows in diplomatic and media circles alike.
In the Middle East, Saudi authorities have freed three Nigerian pilgrims detained over alleged drug trafficking, bringing relief to families back home. On the domestic front, Labour Party’s Peter Obi lambasts President Tinubu over plans for emergency rule in Rivers State, stoking fresh political debates.
The global economy also takes centre stage: the United Kingdom secures a massive £150 billion U.S. investment as Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Donald Trump strike a landmark tech deal. Meanwhile, South Sudan is plunged deeper into crisis as President Salva Kiir suspends his deputy, Riek Machar, and accuses him of treason.
In Asia, U.S.-China tensions flare once again as Beijing slams Nvidia with monopoly breach accusations, just as both nations resume sensitive trade talks. Public health makes headlines with the World Health Organization’s grim report of a 50% surge in global cholera deaths. From Europe, Spain introduces disaster preparedness lessons for children, a move hailed as a pioneering approach to climate resilience.
The Caribbean bloc, CARICOM, issues a firm condemnation of Israel’s strike on Qatar, insisting on respect for international law. In the energy sector, the United States oil industry struggles as job losses mount and companies slash spending amid sliding prices.
On the cultural front, Hollywood dazzles as Brad Pitt and The Studio emerge dominant at the 2025 Emmy Awards, sealing their place in entertainment history.
With fearless reportage and bold editorial framing, Diaspora Watch continues to provide the diaspora community with sharp insights and global perspectives, reinforcing its position as the voice of Africans abroad and a trusted lens on world affairs.
The 62nd edition is available now in print and digital formats.
Global Economic Shifts Dominate Diaspora Watch’s 56th Edition
The 56th edition of Diaspora Watch is out, and it’s packed with insightful analysis on the latest global economic trends.
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This issue shines a spotlight on the US sanctions targeting firms across Asia and the Middle East over their links to Iran’s oil industry, sparking a ripple effect in the global energy market.
Meanwhile, Africa is making a strategic pivot towards China, capitalizing on the Asian giant’s economic prowess amidst US tariffs. This shift is poised to redefine Africa’s economic landscape and open up new opportunities for growth and development.
In other news, the 2025 ACTIF conference brought together key stakeholders, including Amb. Tochil Nwaneri, as the Africa and Caribbean regions signed $290 million worth of deals. This landmark agreement is set to bolster economic ties between the two regions and drive progress.
Japanese investors are also taking notice of Africa’s growth story, eyeing opportunities to tap into the continent’s vast potential.
However, the US fertility rate has plummeted to 1.6 kids per woman, raising concerns about the country’s demographic future.
On the faith front, Bishop Ogunedo urged the faithful to maintain firm faith in the Lord Jesus, emphasizing the importance of spiritual resilience in these uncertain times.
This edition of Diaspora Watch also highlights the NNPC’s assurance of speedy delivery of the $2.8 billion AKK gas pipeline project, Guyana’s new official residence for the CARICOM Secretary-General, and Tinubu’s conferment of national honors on the Super Falcons.
Stay informed with Diaspora Watch’s 56th edition, your premier source for global news and analysis.
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