The ancient town of Okon-Aku Ohafia, in Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State, came alive on December 29, 2025, as sons and daughters of the community gathered to witness the traditional retirement ceremony of the Ifemba Age Grade from active community service.

The event, which drew indigenes from across Nigeria and the diaspora, marked a significant milestone in the life of the age grade. Traditionally, such retirement ceremonies are moments of thanksgiving to God for life, strength, and the opportunity to serve one’s community to the fullest. For members of the Ifemba Age Grade, the occasion was both a celebration of survival and a public presentation of their final contribution to communal development.

Age-Grade System: A Pillar of Ohafia Tradition

The age-grade system remains one of the most enduring socio-cultural institutions in Ohafia. Long before the advent of colonial administration and modern governance, the system served as a structured means oforganisingg society, grouping individuals of similar age into cohorts that advanced through life together,e bearing shared responsibilities.

Historically, age grades played vital roles in community security, collective labour, and governance. In periods of conflict, they were mobilised for the defence of their people. Over time, however, and in line with changing societal needs, the focus of the age-grade system shifted from warfare to development-driven communal service, emphasising infrastructure, education, and social welfare.

Service Culminating in Development

Within this cultural framework, the Ifemba Age Grade emerged, served faithfully, and fulfilled the traditional requirement of concluding its active years with a lasting legacy project. In keeping with Ohafia custom, the group executed a major community intervention before formally bowing out of service.

Their chosen project — the construction of Amabout 300 Meters of tarred road with a major culvert and standard reinforced concrete drainage system. within Okon-Aku — stands as a significant boost to mobility, commerce, and overall economic activity in the community. The road not only eases transportation but also enhances the aesthetic and developmental outlook of one of the Ohafia “A” Communities.

Project Commissioning and Handover

The official commissioning and handover of the project attracted notable dignitaries. Leading the delegation was Chief David Ogba Onuoha (Bourdex), alongside other invited guests. The ceremony was performed in the presence of the traditional ruler, His Royal Highness, Eze Engr. Ndukwe Iko (Nnaka IV of Okon-Aku), and the community’s prime custodian of culture, Chief Bernard Kama (Ezie Ogo) as community members turned out in large numbers to witness the historic moment, underscoring the deep appreciation of the people for the sacrifices and commitment demonstrated by the retiring age grade.

A Legacy of Service and Fulfilment

For the members of the Ifemba Age Grade, the ceremony marked the end of an active chapter defined by unity, discipline, and service. Retiring in good health and leaving behind a tangible symbol of development was widely described as a source of pride and fulfilment.

Beyond celebration, the event reaffirmed the relevance of the age-grade system in contemporary society, proving that traditional institutions, when properly harnessed, remain powerful vehicles for grassroots development and community cohesion.

Comr. Amos Oge Kalu writes from Abuja
E-mail: amoskalu44@gmail.com