The traditional rulers and residents of Amurie Ancient Kingdom in Imo State have earned commendation from the Executive Director of Pillars of Hope Africa Initiative (POHAI), Mrs. Chinyere Oge-Kalu, for their decision to abolish the Osu, Ohu, Ume, and Diala Caste systems.
Amurie Kingdom, comprising Amurie Omanze and Oboro Amurie in Isu Local Government, took this significant step, deeming the Osu caste system in Igboland as appalling and marginalizing.
In a press statement released in Abuja, Oge-Kalu highlighted that two other Imo communities, Amurie Omanze and Oboro Amurie in Isu Local Government Area, have also committed to abolishing these caste systems on January 4, 2024. The collective effort to eliminate these discriminatory practices was the result of years of advocacy by organizations such as the National Human Rights Commission, POHAI, G’naira Family Foundation (GFF), and Kemdi Chino Opera Foundation (KCOF).
Expressing hope for a broader impact, Oge-Kalu anticipated that more communities in Igboland would follow suit, emphasizing the dehumanizing effects of the caste systems on fellow compatriots.
During a gathering at the Palace of Eze Udo II, His Royal Highnesses, Eze C.O Nnajiemere (Eze Udo II of Amurie Omanze) and HRH, Eze V.O Ahamefule (Durugwoegebu IV, Duruoha I of Oboro Amurie) addressed their subjects, announcing January 4, 2024, as the date set for abolishing the Osu, Ume, Ohu, and Diala caste systems in the old Amurie Omanze ancient community.
This decision was warmly received by natives who had long prayed for this transformative moment in the history of Amurie.
IMAGE: Business Post
