A prominent sociopolitical movement representing the Igbo people, Igbo Gadi Nma, has issued a stark warning and a call to action regarding the prolonged retention of deceased individuals in mortuaries across Igbo land. The group is adamant that this practice is not only culturally disruptive but also spiritually detrimental, vowing to actively support political candidates in the upcoming Anambra governorship election who champion a ban on mortuary operations.
The movement, in a strongly worded press statement signed by its National Coordinator, Mazi Emmanuel Ugwoke, expressed deep apprehension over the embalming and extended storage of bodies.
“It is our belief that such practices prevent the spirits of these departed souls from finding peace, resulting in restlessness and a lack of closure for both the families and the communities affected,” the statement read.
“The unburied souls are wanderers, creating an atmosphere of spiritual turmoil in our land.”
Igbo Gadi Nma declared their unwavering commitment to a “spiritual cleansing of Ala Igbo from what we refer to as ‘dead zombies’ that disrupt the harmony of our environment.”
The group’s political leverage for the upcoming Anambra governorship election is clear: “As we approach the upcoming Anambra governorship election, we are resolute in our intention to support candidates who align with our vision for the spiritual and cultural rejuvenation of Igbo land. Any gubernatorial candidate who advocates for the cessation of this practice and supports a ban on mortuary operations will receive our active backing, campaigning efforts, and block votes.”
Beyond spiritual implications, Igbo Gadi Nma highlighted the perceived negative impact on the youth. The movement believes that the spirits of the unburied exert a detrimental influence, contributing to criminal tendencies and immoral behaviour among young people.
“The prevalence of crime, violence, and the insatiable desire for quick wealth without genuine effort can be traced back to these spiritual disturbances,” the statement asserted.
The organization is also calling on religious authorities to join their cause. “We call on the church leaders and relevant authorities to join us in this critical discourse. The entrance of dead bodies into places of worship corrupts the sanctity of these holy sites and should be steadfastly opposed.”
They reiterated a core tenet of Igbo culture: “We believe that a dead person’s spirit cannot find rest until they are given a proper burial, and it is considered an abomination in Igbo culture to keep a body for more than four Igbo market days.”
Mazi Emmanuel Ugwoke urged all stakeholders to act swiftly. “In light of these concerns, Igbo Gadi Nma urges traditional and religious leaders, as well as our governors, to take immediate action in banning the retention of dead bodies in mortuaries. This effort is essential not only for spiritual cleansing but also for restoring integrity and moral values within our society.”
The movement concluded with a rallying cry: “Together, let us embark on this journey to reclaim our cultural heritage and ensure that our land is free from the haunting presence of unburied spirits.”
