IGBO-JAH: A Delegation of Youth Assembly of Nigeria Visits Deceased Family in Enugu

 

The Youth Assembly of Nigeria (YAN), Enugu State Chapter, led by Ambassador Chidubem Ugwueze JP, recently paid a visit to the family of the late Igboja, a celebrated figure in Igbo cultural music and the Ogene genre. The visit was a solemn moment, marked by expressions of deep sympathy, as well as a strong message of unity and support for the Igboja family.

Speaking on behalf of YAN Enugu State Chapter, Ambassador Ugwueze expressed the assembly's profound sorrow over the loss of Igboja, describing him as a “shining star, an exceptional entertainer in the Ogene music tradition, and a pride of NDI Igbo and our cultural heritage.” The late Igboja was cherished for his contributions to Igbo music and culture, which brought pride and joy to the Igbo community, and his passing has left a significant void in the hearts of many.

“On behalf of the Youth Assembly of Nigeria, Enugu State Chapter, my executive team and I extend our deepest sympathies to the entire Igboja family. We recognize that this is a time of great sorrow, and we stand with you as you grieve the loss of such a valuable life,” stated Ambassador Ugwueze. He went on to express the assembly’s readiness to support the Igboja family during this difficult period, assuring them that they would not face this tragedy alone.

In his speech, Ambassador Ugwueze also addressed the ongoing quest for justice, acknowledging the swift response from the Enugu State Government and other concerned Nigerians. He emphasized the commitment of YAN Enugu State Chapter to advocating for accountability, pledging that they would continue to push for justice in memory of Igboja. “We want to encourage you to hold on to hope and believe that justice will be served. The swift response from the Enugu State Government and other concerned Nigerians shows a collective commitment to ensuring accountability,” he stated.

Reflecting on the tragedy, Ambassador Ugwueze called for systemic changes within Nigeria’s security forces, particularly in the recruitment processes. He highlighted the need for comprehensive mental evaluations for security personnel, underlining that this incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of thorough assessments in critical roles that directly impact public safety. “There is no room for error in security services, and we must work together to prevent such tragic occurrences from happening again,” he said.

In a message to the people of Obiagu, Enugu State residents, and the youth, Ambassador Ugwueze urged the community to remain peaceful and law-abiding as they mourn Igboja’s passing. He called for restraint and implored everyone to honor Igboja’s memory through peaceful means, advising against any form of violence or unrest in the wake of the incident. “Let us refrain from any form of violence, no matter the provocation, especially in Igboja’s name. We owe it to him and to ourselves to uphold peace, even in our pain,” he appealed.

During the visit, the YAN delegation met with Igboja’s elder brother, uncles, and children, sharing moments of reflection and resolve. Ambassador Ugwueze expressed YAN’s commitment to supporting Igboja’s family, specifically his children, and called upon Nigerians to rally around them. “I call upon all well-meaning Nigerians to extend their support to Igboja’s children and family now and in the future. They should feel the warmth of our collective strength and compassion, ensuring that they never walk alone,” he added.

In a tribute to Igboja’s legacy, Ambassador Ugwueze commemorated the late artist’s contributions to the Ogene music tradition, affirming that his influence and passion for Igbo cultural music would live on. “To Igboja, who was a star in his own right and an unparalleled Ogene entertainer, we honor you. May your legacy shine brightly in our memories and inspire our cultural heritage,” he concluded.

The Youth Assembly of Nigeria, Enugu State Chapter, together with its diaspora members, expressed their unity and unwavering support for the Igboja family. The visit symbolized not only a gesture of condolence but also a call for collective action to ensure justice, reform, and sustained support for those affected by this loss.