…Says, “Let Our Women Dance Again”
Traditional music and cultural heritage took centre stage in Owerri on Saturday, August 29, as the Leader of Owerri Municipal Legislative Council, Rt. Hon. Soronnadi Justice Chijioke, presented traditional musical instruments to women groups from the five indigenous communities of the municipality.
The presentation formed part of activities marking the 2026 Women August Meeting held at the premises of Owerri Municipal Council where women from the communities gathered for celebration, unity and cultural fellowship.
Soronnadi Justice said the initiative was conceived to help restore cultural practices that have gradually declined in contemporary society, particularly traditional songs, dances and communal celebrations involving women.
He said the gesture was also aimed at reconnecting the people, especially younger generations, with the traditions and cultural values handed down by their forefathers.
“Our culture is our identity. We cannot afford to watch it disappear. There was a time when our women danced, sang our traditional songs and proudly displayed the rich heritage of our people. We want to bring that culture back. Let our women dance again,” he said.
The Council Leader explained that the instruments would provide the women with the necessary tools to revive indigenous music and traditional dances during community celebrations and other cultural occasions.
He noted that the five indigenous communities of Owerri Municipal have a rich cultural history worthy of preservation, adding that traditional music, dance and communal gatherings had historically played important roles in promoting unity, solidarity and social cohesion among the people.
According to him, cultural preservation goes beyond entertainment, as it is closely connected to the people’s identity, history and values, which must be transferred from one generation to another.
He called on political leaders, traditional rulers, community leaders, philanthropists and other well meaning sons and daughters of Owerri Municipal to support initiatives aimed at preserving the cultural heritage of the municipality.
Soronnadi Justice further stressed that while government and community leaders must continue to pursue physical infrastructure and economic development, equal attention should be given to the cultural and social identity of the people.
The five indigenous communities of Owerri Municipal are Ndom Udodiri Umuororonjo, Amawom, Umuoyeche, Umuihua Umuodu and Umuoyima.
The beneficiaries welcomed the gesture, saying the provision of the instruments would give greater impetus to the revival of traditional music and dance within the communities
