Unbreakable Bonds as Okigbo Family Reunion Takes Washington DC by Storm
By Boniface Ihiasota, USA
In a remarkable display of unity, the Okigbo family from the diaspora came together for a memorable reunion in the heart of Washington DC. From May 25 to May 28, 2023, family members traveled from far and wide to celebrate their shared heritage, pay tribute to recently departed relatives, and create lasting memories.
The reunion, exclusively covered by Excel Magazine International, kicked off on Thursday, May 25, with a warm welcome as family members arrived and checked into their accommodations. Excitement filled the air as generations reunited and caught up on years of missed moments.
Friday, May 26, proved to be a day of exploration and reflection as the Okigbo family embarked on a guided tour of Washington DC. Dressed in a striking ensemble of white tops paired with blue jeans, they visited iconic landmarks such as the White House, Lincoln Memorial, and the awe-inspiring National Mall.
However, the highlight of the day was the Remembrance Mass held in honor of family members who had passed away in 2023. It was a time for tears and shared stories, as the Okigbo family honored the memories of their loved ones.
The festivities continued on Saturday, May 27, with a family gathering and a unique twist. Sporting blue Okigbo reunion t-shirts paired with black pants/shorts, the family embarked on an unforgettable cruise aboard the Spirit of Washington.
Against the backdrop of the scenic Potomac River, laughter and joy echoed throughout the vessel as relatives caught up, danced to lively music, and created lifelong memories.
As the weekend reached its climax on Sunday, May 28, the Okigbo family showcased their cultural pride by donning vibrant Ankara attire and red dresses/tops. They attended a solemn mass at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, where prayers were offered for the family’s well-being and unity. The moment was a testament to the family’s deep-rooted traditions and faith.
With mixed emotions, family members began to check out and bid farewell to each other on Sunday, marking the end of an unforgettable weekend. While departures were bittersweet, the Okigbo family departed Washington DC with hearts filled with love, memories, and a renewed sense of connection.
The Okigbo family reunion in Washington DC served as a reminder of the importance of family, heritage, and remembrance. By embracing their cultural identity and honoring departed loved ones, the Okigbo family demonstrated the power of unity and the significance of keeping ancestral ties alive across generations. As they dispersed back to their respective corners of the world, the bonds forged during this extraordinary reunion will continue to strengthen, ensuring that the Okigbo legacy lives on for years to come.
Going down the memory lane, Okigbo family history began with Mazi Okolafor Ode, who became the first and only Warrant Chief of Ojoto, representing the British colonial government as “Eze Ojoto.” Okolafor Ode was born around 1850 and lived a remarkable life until his death in 1921 at the age of 71.
Even before the arrival of the British colonialists, Okolafor Ode was renowned as a wealthy farmer, successful trader, and philanthropist. His social standing in Ojoto was unmatched, making him the natural choice as Warrant Chief.
Okolafor Ode proved to be a clever strategist and pragmatic leader in his interactions with the British colonialists and his governance of Ojoto. He embraced both modern and traditional values, sending his sons to both native and missionary schools to secure their future. He was a proponent of British rule while maintaining his African cultural roots.
Eze Okigbo embraced European civilization and delighted in offering European drinks to his subjects. He even incorporated English expressions into his speech, albeit sometimes incorrectly. He held a genuine appreciation for the work of Christian missionaries and identified with the story of Jesus Christ as a fellow ruler.
Eze Okigbo’s kindness and generosity knew no bounds. He generously donated land to the Catholic Mission and granted parcels to non-Okigbo families residing in or near the Okigbo Quarters. His foresight in sending his sons to school in Onitsha and Obosi yielded long-lasting benefits, as they became pioneers of Western education.
Although Eze Okigbo did not send his daughters to school, he held them in high regard, as reflected in the names he gave them. His sons compensated for this and today, Okigbo women excel in various professions, including banking, business, education, healthcare, information technology, international relations, law, mass communication, and medicine.
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