By Enitan Abel JOHNGOLD
ONICHA-OLONA- It is said that a family reunion is an occasion when many members of an extended family congregate. Sometimes reunions are held regularly, probably on the same date of every year. But, the Umu AGHAEZE family of Onicha-Olona in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State chose the resurrection of Jesus Christ days / season, which is Easter to be celebrating theirs.
Just as it’s notably known that typical family reunion will assemble for a meal, some recreation and discussion, so was the AGHAEZE Family Reunion 2024 which spanned from Thursday 28th to Sunday 31st March, 2024, with a lecture titled: MAINTAINING AGHAEZE FAMILY – Age Long Lineage, Culture and Ethics. ‘A Historical Journey Through Time’, A speech delivered by Major General Raymond N. Ochei, mni. That dwelled extensively on Umu AGHAEZE Family’s past, present and future.
In his speech, Gen. Ochei stated that the Umu AGHAEZE Family Reunion was a gathering used in celebrating their family, their progenitors, their history, and rich culture as well as their uncommon achievements, courage and good example. That it’s also used in celebrating their spirit of brotherhood and volunteerism .
Adding, he said “our patriotism and triumph, our compassion and love for ourselves and fellow citizens, our generosity and finally, the new generation of young men and women who are going to keep the flag of our great family name and honour flying. As a family, we have decided to travel this family path again during this season of Lent. As we all know, family reunions present great opportunities to reconnect with our siblings, share our common stories, create new memories and bond like a family. It also affords us the opportunity to appreciate the uniqueness of our family and to plan for the future.”
The Nigerian Army General who revealed that the children of AGHAEZE are people from different backgrounds which is the foundation of their lives and being, and that it was a privilege to be a part of the AGHAEZE Family, appealed to the family not to forget to celebrate their heritage, and to please engage with family members they do not know or have not seen in a very long while, including those they see frequently.
While chronicling the Aghaeze bravery roles played during the Ekumeku movement of the 17th Century which remains the biggest and deadliest war in the history of Anioma people (Delta North), he disclosed that the progenitor, Aghaeze who left Benin Kingdom to Onicha Olona had three children named: Ochei, Anikwue and Okechukwu.
Giving an overview heroism and bravery of the Umu AGHAEZE Family overtime, General Ochei stated that their forefathers were liberators who emancipated their people from the oppressive neighbours and foreign powers. He said around the 16th Century, the AGHAEZE Family gained ascendancy for being the leading light in nearly all the inter-communal clashes of that ear. A feat that could be replicated in present times through non kinetic means because of changing times. “The Aghaeze family could therefore increase its various charitable and intervention activities aimed towards winning the hearts and minds of people within the community.
“Encourage family members who are well placed to continue with their commendable people oriented programs that will benefit the family and a vast majority of our people.
“We should ensure that the dignity and honour of the family is upheld at all times. Replicate the bonding and togetherness of our forefathers and create a sustainable communication platform. ” He noted in his lecture’s recommendations.
While preaching love, cooperation and positive family relationships, Major General Raymond Ochei, mni, said the journey ahead of them was tough but insurmountable, so they must reinvent their family and theirselves now, adding that “It’s a moral debt we owe our ancestors and our younger ones. This is the only way to sustain the legacy and rich tradition our progenitors built and preserved over the years.”
He said the lecture has them the privilege to refresh their minds on their family history and accomplishments, including family values, as well as their unimpeachable spirit of good neighbourliness.
“It’s now time for us as a family to look forward with a sense of zeal, optimism and commitment toward the realization of all these our forefathers virtues from their exploits, innovation, dexterity and kind-heartedness that we hold dear.” General Ochei concluded.
The highlights of the remarkable Umu Aghaeze Family Reunion includes road walk dressed in branded family T-shirts, family fellowship, family seminar, family breakfast, lunch and dinner for the 4 days, family get together/feast, family thanksgiving, distribution of family souvenirs, children’s party and Diokpa’s prayers/ blessings at different family members venues including Maj. Gen. Raymond Ochei mni and Rt. Hon. Victor Ochei, former Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly.