I’ve been so restless and I always wonder if the values, actions attitudes etc of our forefathers towards one another are the same as what we practice today, they referred their brothers whenever the opportunity called, they ate from the same pot, they contributed to provide shelter, food and other necessary assistance to one another, oh loud NO I guessed because what we have today is directly opposite of what they practised.
In Igbo land, the concept of Obinwanne has long been a significant part of the community’s culture, symbolizing the deep bond that exists between siblings and extended family. It goes beyond bloodlines, extending to all members of the Igbo society, emphasizing the kinship, love, and support that unite brothers and sisters. However, over the years, with the rise of individualism, modernization, and certain external influences, this essential component of Igbo unity has begun to weaken. Today, more than ever, there is a need to rekindle this ancestral bond of love and unity, which historically laid the foundation for communal progress and strength.
In ancient Igbo society, Obinwanne meant more than just family connections. It fostered trust, collective responsibility, and mutual growth. Brothers and sisters would stand together in the face of challenges, defend each other’s rights, and work in concert for the progress of their families and community. When one person faced difficulties, others were there to help; when one person prospered, they shared their wealth with their extended family. This culture of communal support not only ensured the well-being of individuals but also sustained the development and prosperity of the entire Igbo nation.
Sadly, the values of Obinwanne have diminished in recent times. Many Igbos have turned toward personal achievements and individual success, often neglecting the communal spirit that has sustained their people for centuries. As more families become fragmented due to migration, competition, or social pressures, the bonds that once held them together have grown weaker. This trend has led to a decline in trust, a rise in conflicts, and a general sense of disconnection among brothers, resulting in missed opportunities for collective progress.
Reactivating the ancestral love and unity that comes with Obinwanne is essential for the restoration of Igbo greatness. It begins with a conscious effort to restore the core values of brotherhood and mutual respect that once defined the Igbo people. These values should be taught from generation to generation, reminding the youth of their responsibility to their family, their community, and their heritage. By reawakening this spirit, Igbos can regain the sense of togetherness that has always been their strength.
One practical way to achieve this is through communal gatherings and dialogues that encourage reconciliation and the resolution of conflicts among families and brothers. It is common knowledge that disagreements often cause rifts, but through honest discussions rooted in love, brothers can mend their differences and rediscover their shared goals. Technology has equally made it easy for us as we now have WhatsApp platforms where we gather to share our ideas and values. Cultural festivals, village meetings, and family gatherings should serve as avenues for fostering love and solidarity among brothers, reminding them of their shared heritage and the need to support one another.
Furthermore, the economic prosperity of the Igbo people is closely tied to their unity. Historically, when Igbos worked together in business ventures, agriculture, and trade, they thrived. Today, a renewed focus on collaboration and collective enterprise can drive the community toward greater success. Cooperative societies, joint ventures, and family businesses that emphasize the spirit of Obinwanne can create lasting wealth and uplift entire families, contributing to the progress of the entire Igbo land.
In conclusion, the reactivation of Obinwanne is not just a cultural necessity but a pathway to progress for the Igbo people. It calls for a return to the values of love, unity, and shared responsibility that once defined their society. Our WhatsApp platforms should not just be a place to make jest and brutalize people but we should try to adopt the spirit of Obinwanne. By embracing these ancestral principles, Igbos can create a future that reflects the greatness of their past, ensuring that their heritage of unity and brotherhood continues to foster progress for generations to come.
Smart Emmanuel C
CEO. SMART GUARDS AND SECURITY SERVICES
Owerri imo state Nigeria
16th October 2024