HOW TO BE AN "ELDER" IN IGBO CULTURE
The status of an Elder in Igbo culture is a spiritual status. It is not earned by political appointment. Being a Governor or having served as a Governor or a Federal Minister or even a president or legislator will not make someone an Elder in Igboland. When old politicians gather, it does not mean Igbo Elders have gathered. Though a politician can become an Elder, an Elder does not have to be a politician.
The status of an Elder in Igbo culture is a spiritual status. It is not earned by political appointment. Being a Governor or having served as a Governor or a Federal Minister or even a president or legislator will not make someone an Elder in Igboland. When old politicians gather, it does not mean Igbo Elders have gathered. Though a politician can become an Elder, an Elder does not have to be a politician.
The position of an Elder is a spiritual status granted by the Igbo by way of experiential affirmation through the interplay of Igbo cosmology and social engagement with the forces of evil seeking to undermine the Igbo because of their chosen status in God. These forces of evil are always seeking to enslave the people of God and takes pleasure in killing their children. An Igbo Elder stands in opposition to these forces through prayer, contemplation and positive action.
When you are recognized as an Elder in Igboland, it means that the Igbo people believe that though you are alive, you have connections with Igbo forefathers or ancestors in heaven. Infact, as an Igbo elder, it means that you will go to heaven, to be with the ancestors when you die.
An Igbo Elder does not lie, even under gun point. He speaks truth to power and stands for justice at all times. He does not double speak.
An Igbo Elder conducts himself with integrity. He does not come to the public to exchange words with youth or complain to foreigners about his children. He is ready to die for his children because he really loves them. He does not use any of his children to advance personal benefits from enemies.
An Igbo Elder does not just talk, he takes action for the good of his children. He listens to his children because he knows that the future belongs to them. He takes actions to protect them and walks with them in the good path they choose for their future.
Ala Igbo Development Foundation is a gathering of Igbo Elders. When they saw their children being mowed down by killers, they took action. They took the killers to the International Criminal Court to stop the killings and face justice. An Elder does not stay in the house while the she goat delivers in the tethers.
Please, when you see Prof T.U Nwala and leaders of the Ala Igbo Development Foundation, please give them Oji Dike, the Kolanut for the brave. They are the Igbo Elders that we Know!
(c) Josh Amaezechi
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