Anioma Association in Washington DC Hosts Okwa Akpele Competition to Celebrate Cultural Heritage
By Loveth Okolie
The people of Onicha Olona in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State played host to music enthusiasts on Saturday, November 30, 2024, as the much-anticipated Okwa Akpele Contest took place. The event, aimed at promoting and preserving Anioma’s rich cultural heritage, brought together music lovers, cultural advocates, and important figures from across the Anioma communities of Delta State, Nigeria.
The Akpele belongs to African Musical instrumental family called the Aerophores. It is similar to a flute and plays a significant role in musical traditions, particularly in ceremonies and festivals of the Anioma people of Delta State, Nigeria. This traditional instrument is often crafted from materials such as calabash, bamboo, wood, or reeds, and its sound which is characterized by its soft, melodic tone is believed to convey emotions and messages that words sometimes cannot express. Playing the Akpele requires skill and creativity, as musicians often improvise melodies to suit the mood of the performance. This unique musical instrument complements drums and other percussive instruments during communal dances or rituals. It is also a tool for storytelling and spiritual practices.
The contest, sponsored by Anioma Association Okanga Group in Washington DC, USA, featured eleven (11) talented participants from Anioma land, each showing their skills in playing the Akpele. The performances ranged from emotional melodies to lively tunes that had the audience cheering and clapping enthusiastically.
A panel of judges evaluated the contestants. The judges included well-known experts in traditional music like Surv. Sir. John Jibunor, Dr. Ugo Amamyeiwe, Chief Emeke Obomkpa, Nnamdi Wenga, and the S A to Iyase of Ukala kingdom, Edwin Ofuase. They scored the participants on creativity, skill, stage presence, costume, and cultural authenticity.
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After many captivating performances, young Ngadaonye Chizzy from Onicha Olona was announced as the winner of the contest. His skillful manipulation of the Akpele deeply moved both the judges and the audience. He received a cash prize of two hundred thousand naira (#200,000), while first and second runners-up received cash prize of one hundred and fifty thousand naira (#150,000) and one hundred thousand naira (#100,000) respectively. Overwhelmed with joy, Chizzy said, “This is a dream come true for me. God bless the organisers of this context”
The event was attended by several dignitaries such as HRH. Lobe Joy Nokwaba (Omu of Ukala), HRH. Theresa Uwadia (Omu of Onicha-uku), Prof. Nwanne Onyemenem, High Chief Osita Olunwa (Iyase of Onicha-olona), High Chief Peter. I. Nwaoji (Iyase of Ukala), Surv. Sir. John Jibunor (Deputy Surveyor General of Delta State, Ezinne Barr. Angela Nwoko, Nnamdi Wenga Ikwuazom (Historian from the Palace of Obi Onitsha Ado), Prince Dr. Felix Ifeanyi Nwabuokei (a known Historian from Anioma Watch), Amb. Nwani Christopher, His worship, Chief Austen Elumelu JP. (Ozoma Onicha-olona) amongst others. Their presence highlighted the importance of the event and the need to promote cultural pride.
Otu-Onyenuma cultural dance group was on ground to add colour to the event with their well-blended instrumental ensemble and energetic dance steps. One of the heartwarming moments of the event was when Barr. Angela Nwoko, speaking on behalf of Senator Ned Nwoko Foundation announced scholarship and job opportunities for both the contestants and any qualified person present at the event. The news was welcomed with great joy, and the people prayed for her and the foundation.
Certificates were issued to the participants, who posed for group photographs with the judges and some dignitaries present
Speaking with newsmen at the end of the programme, Prof. Nwanne Onyemenem thanked all those who made the event a reality, stating that the context is a dream come true because the Akpele tradition was gradually going into extinction. According to him “The Akpele is a unique instrument that plays a prominent role in our cultural activities, that is why it must be promoted. The level of artistry displayed today has been truly impressive.” The academia went further to encourage the youths of Anioma land, especially those who participated in the contest to embrace education so they can go beyond the locality.
Reiterating Prof. Onyemenem’s points, Dr. Ugo Amamyeiwe said education is key to greater heights. She said “It’s inspiring to watch young talents play the Akpele in such a meaningful way, but it breaks my heart to see that the winner of today’s contest is not in school.” Talking about her role in the Akpele contest, Dr. Amamyeiwe described herself ‘as a facilitator who loves the enuani culture and Akpele sound specifically’, pointing out that her late father taught her the importance of traditional music. She thanked the Anioma Association in Washington DC for believing in this dream. “To the members of the Anioma Association Okanga Group in the US, two thumbs up for all of you, you are the best.” She concluded.
The evening ended with traditional dance by Otu-Onyenuma cultural group. The event reminded everyone of the power of music to bring people together and keep history alive. As the audience left, there was a sense of pride in Anioma’s cultural heritage and excitement for the future of the Akpele Contest.
Reflecting on the success of the competition, the President of the Anioma Association in Washington DC, Dr. Otado Christian Mbulu has expressed heartfelt gratitude to all individuals and organisations who contributed to the success of the Competition. Speaking with Ika Weekly reporter during a phone interview, the president lauded the efforts of everyone involved, emphasizing their invaluable role in sustaining the cultural event.
“I deeply appreciate all those who supported the Akpele Competition and made it the success it was. A big thank you to the organisers who were on ground to do the leg work. Your dedication and contributions have helped us preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of Anioma,” the president stated.
Dr. Mbulu also reaffirmed the association’s unwavering commitment to the competition, promising continued sponsorship and support in the years ahead. “The Anioma Association will remain steadfast in sponsoring the Akpele Competition. This is more than an event, it is a testament to our shared heritage and identity, I pray that more people will be involved in the competition come 2025,” he added.