Ochiagha Oparaukwu Ibeku Prince Benjamin Benedict Apugo has called for the development of Culture in Abia State as it unites the people.
Apugo who made the call at his residence while recieving the Abia State Council for Arts And Culture leadership, disclosed that his love for culture and traditions spurred him to continuously advocate for it’s sustainability in Igboland and Ibeku.
He added that his deep involvement in upholding the Ibeku tradition was due to inheritance , while he assures them support.
He said that Abia State government under governor Alex is poised to improving the standard of the State Council for Arts and Culture , adding that the ministry has not received the motivation it required to move forward by priveous administrations.
Arts and Culture he says is important because it helps to preserve the values and norms of every society.
And it helps people to be truthful.
“Arts and Culture is important because it helps people to be truthful,he said”.
Prince Benjamin Benedict Apugo further welcomed the recognition as the Grand Patron as he maintained that he has always cherished Culture and tradition .
He has been involved as the Grand Patron of the Okonko cultural group in Abia State and the Cultural leader of the Traditional Rulers in Umuahia North LGA in Abia State.
During their presentation of the honour to Prince Benjamin Apugo as the Grand Patron of Abia State Council for Arts and Culture,Pastor Chibike Ukata ,Director Abia State Council For Arts And Culture said the Council came to identify with Prince Benjamin Apugo because of his impact in the society in the promotion of culture in Igboland to pay him that respect.
“We are here to accord him a respect because he is a traditional man as far as Igboland and Ibeku is concerned”.
“So , we now decided that since ever the inception of Abia State he has not been given this type of honour”.
“We the management of Abia State Council for Arts and Culture decided to come and give him this respect and again to tell him that we need him in our sector”.
“That is why we are here today and to also give that honour-the Grand Patron of Abia State Council for Arts And Culture”.
He assures him that the Council will collaborate with him to promote Acts and Culture in the State.
Also speaking,the Imperial Majesty Dr.Mishak Nnanta says that Apugo understands the true definition of Igbo culture hence the need for his involvement in the activities of Arts and Culture in the State.
Amongst many things, Apugo recommends the resucitatation of the Okonko cultural group and the incoporation of Ibeku Culture in Abia State Council for Arts and Culture .
In attendance were ,Mrs Chioma Ufomadu ,Head Of Department ,Mrs Ruth Okoko,Chionye Omeremba ,Prince Ugwumba Atuloma Head Of Department of festival,Ugochukeu Uwasomba and Head Of Department ,Performing Acts.
