Nde Aro as we know, are a people renowned for our rich cultural heritage and resilience. A people who by our ancestral construct, can simply be described as a large, bounded family. I feel so glad in my spirit, as I behold among the Aro people, a unique spirit of patriotism which has emerged, and embodied by Umu Aro.
This article therefore, delves into the essence of Umu Aro’s patriotism, exploring its significance and the profound impact it has had on Aro Kingdom as a whole.
Understanding Umu Aro
Umu Aro, are said to be the only people, or nation, referred to, as Umuchukwu (children of God), alongside the Israelites. This infers that Aro are special breed; which represents a collective identity, symbolizing the shared heritage, values, ethos, and aspirations of the Kingdom, wherever they are domicile. This sense of shared identity fosters a deep-seated loyalty and commitment to the kingdom’s well-being.
Many Faces of Umu Aro’s patriotism:
1. Cultural Preservation
Efforts are consciously made, by a huge chunk of Umu Aro; to protect and promote Aro traditions, customs, and culture. The energy, joy, and zeal that Umu Aro invests in these regard are very overwhelming, and noteworthy. Evidences are abound in Omenali Aro platform. In this platform, Umu Aro have intentionally, made it a point of utmost concern to awaken the consciousness of Aroness in every Nwa Aro. This they do by reminding Umu Aro both at home, and in diaspora, the need to teach our children Igbo Aro, Aro cuisines, and all other aspects of Aro cultures and traditions. As one of the measures to preserve these cultural heritage, in this year’s Ikeji festival, Aro has taken another step forward by organizing an “ Ikeji Aro Traditional Dinner”, were only Aro cuisines will be served. On another hand, Aro traditional marriage has always stood out as the best traditional marriage, in Igboland, if not in Nigeria, infused, and embedded with so much Aro cultural attributes, which can be found in the literary elements of drama.
The Mgbede costume of Omu Aro, the local body drawings, and the coral accessories, accompanied with the sweet, melodious, graceful Odumgbede dance, has always been a sight to behold. The “Aju Mmai” which is a dramatic episode on its own, has a place in literary drama, as I mentioned earlier.
To keep Aro rich cultural heritage alive, Umu Aro in diaspora also celebrate Ikeji Aro wherever they are domicile. Events that demand ekpe and ekpo appearances, gets full display of such activities. In this way, Aro children who are born in diaspora, gets to acclimatize with their cultural heritage, early in life.
Few recent examples which demonstrated Aro cultural heritage in full glance, while projecting it to the world are:
The presentation of Omu Aro to Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, by Eze Aro, Eze Eberechukwu Oji, in a national event. This unique, but peculiar presentation, automatically made Aro the host of that national event. The reception/performance of Ekpe, and Inyom Aro, Owerri branch, when Eze Aro attended a meeting of Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council at Owerri, Imo State , also, was a clear projection of Aro cultural heritage to the world. The Coronation Ceremonies were the mother of them all. Every progressive Nwa Aro was part of that world class event that re- announced Aro to the world.
2. Community Development
It is pertinent to note that, Umu Aro are taking initiatives focused on improving infrastructure, education, and healthcare in Aro, as top priorities. It is no longer news that internal roads in Arochukwu are being built by Umu Aro. Solar street lights, have taken over all the nooks and crannies of Aro villages. In the 2nd Edition of “ Ububo Eze Aro”, His Eminence reiterated the need for the “ Light Up Aro Project “ to continue, until every part of Aro is well lit up. He encouraged every nwa Aro to be part of it; even if it means lighting up one’s own environment. He said his target is three thousand more, streets lights across Aro. This also is worthy of note.
On education, The ARODev plan captures that. To set the ball rolling, the Education Committee set up by Nzuko Aro, started work immediately, with the launch of Education Fund, 2022, Aro Day Celebration. They supplied Nzuko Aro branded exercise books, to some schools in Aro. I learnt this will come in phases. They also built a Computer Center, equipped with computers donated by Umu Aro, and a lot more.
3. Unity and Solidarity:
Promotion of harmony among Umu Aro, regardless of geographical dispersion came alive, with the introduction of “All Aro National Conference“. This Conference, which brings together, all Umu Aro, at home, settlements, and diaspora, has remained a rallying point for the discussion of the way forward for Aro Kingdom.
Impact on Aro Kingdom
The Umu Aro patriotism has brought numerous benefits to the kingdom:
1. Cultural Revitalization: Preserved traditions and customs have attracted tourism, boosting local economy. A good example is the Ikeji celebration. This is a season when Umu Aro, and their friends all over the world come home to fraternize with family and friends. Eke Ekpe has also attracted government and cooperate attentions.
2. Improved Infrastructure: Community-driven projects have enhanced living standards.
I personally appreciate all Umu Aro, who have taken it upon themselves, to give Aro Kingdom a face-lift, thereby making life better for all of us. In access roads, the likes of His Exellency, Dr Alex Otti, even before he became the Governor, through NDDC, built many roads across Aro villages. Ugwu Aro. Mazi Obasi Lawson (Sobaz), His Eminence, Eze Eberechukwu Oji, before he also became Eze Aro, Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, and Mazi Chukwuemeka Onwuchekwa; and maybe, others I may not know, have written their names in gold, in the sands of our time; by giving Aro accessible roads, and street lights.
Aro has become a beauty to behold at night. No more hiding places for mischievous miscreants.
3. Education and Healthcare: Investments in these sectors have elevated human capital. Our children do not have to embark on travels outside Aro for JAMB and GCE Exams anymore courtesy of The Presbyterian Church. With this the risks associated with this form of movement is averted. The Computer Center provided by Nzuko Aro Worldwide, will definitely enhance the computer proficiency of our children.
In healthcare, it is like taking one’s life in one’s hands. The monthly donations by concerned Umu Aro have consistently made free medication a regular thing in Aro USA hospital. This has gone a long way in addressing the minor health challenges of our people at home.
4. Unity and Strength: A sense of shared purpose has fostered cooperation and progress. On many occasions, I have asked my husband if Aro community service is a full time job. Aside the finances, the dedication, commitment, sleepless nights, myriads of committee meetings, and travels, to make Aro projects and programs work out well are so amazing. Essentially, all these are done with very good spirits.
Conclusion
Umu Aro’s patriotism serves as a shining example of the transformative power of collective dedication. By embracing their shared identity and working towards common goals, Umu Aro has created a thriving kingdom as a boom to Aro Kingdom.
Umu Aro’s patriotism continues to inspire generations, ensuring a bright future for our vibrant community.
