From TCNEWS
A former Chairman of Oboro Clan Council of Traditional Rulers in Ikwuano Local Government Area of Abia State, HRM King Larry Ogbonnaya Agwu has passionately appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to use his presidential Prerogative of Mercy and release the IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, on October 1 Independence Day.
Speaking in his compound in Ajatanigu autonomous community, during his annual New yam (iri ji ohuru) festival, King Agwu said that such action would further endear him and his administration to the general mass of the Igbos.
He said that the presidential Prerogative of Mercy would also go a long way in availing the much-needed balm to erase the hitherto lingering wound of the Biafran experience, and also contribute immensely unifying Nigerians for national growth, peace and stability.
King Agwu who said that Ajatanigu people are renowned for their exploits in agriculture and farming, also appreciated the legendary Dr Michael Okpara, former Premier of defunct Eastern region , who advocated and promoted Agricultural revolution through the establishment of different farm settlements in the state.
He said that the Iri Ji festival has become an integral part of the cultural life of the Oboro people as it marks the beginning of the new yam harvest season which is a symbol of abundance and prosperity in the land.
The Royal father reminded the community that it is only God that makes the harvest possible, from the land clearing to cultivation, weeding and the harvest proper.
He encouraged the Church not to force meaningful cultural heritage like iri ji festival into extinction but to promote it as it is not fetish but was designed to correct anomalies and promote cultural recreation in the society.
The event which attracted traditional rulers across the state, featured Chieftaincy conferment and installation on distinguished personalities.