History, Origin, Culture and Traditions of Enugwu ukwu Town in Anambra state

 
Enugwu-Ukwu (meaning "on top of a high hill" in English) is a prominent town in Anambra State, Nigeria. The town is geographically situated on hilly terrain, which is the origin of its name, reflecting its topographical features. It is predominantly inhabited by the Igbo ethnic group of Anambra State. The majority of the people are Christians, with Anglicans and Roman Catholics being the most prevalent denominations. Enugwu-Ukwu is part of the Njikoka Local Government Area of Anambra State. The town consists of several villages, including Uruokwe, Enu-Avomimi, Adagbe-Avomini, Umu-Atulu, Urualor, Akiyi, Avomimi, Awovu, Enuagu, Ire, Orji, Orofia, Osili, Umuakwu, Umuatulu, Umuatuora, Umuokpaleri, Uruekwo, Urukpaleke, Urunnebo, and Uruogbo.

Enugwu-Ukwu is bordered by neighboring towns such as Nawfia, Nise, Agukwu-Nri, Nimo Owelle, Abagana, and Enugwu-Agidi. The estimated population of the town as of 2009 is approximately 448,000.

The town's traditional authority is embodied in the kingship title of Eze Enugwu-Ukwu na Igwe Umunri. The immediate past traditional ruler was His Majesty, Igwe Osita Agwuna III, while the current traditional ruler is His Majesty, Igwe Ralph Obumnemeh Ekpeh (Okpalanakana-Ukabia Nri IV).

A significant cultural event in Enugwu-Ukwu is the Mmonwu Festival, which takes place every year during the festive period in December, specifically on December 26. The festival is usually hosted at the Umunri Palace near Nkwo market and is supported by various organizations and individuals from across the country. The Mmonwu Festival, a masquerade celebration, features stick fights and is sponsored by companies like MTN, a major telecommunications company in Nigeria. The festival attracts large crowds from both near and far and is an exhibition of the rich Igbo cultural heritage. Prizes are awarded to the best masquerades, with the top three receiving recognition for their performances. The current traditional ruler, Sir Ralph ?b?mnemeh Ekpeh, attended the festival in December 2019.

The town is also home to an official Post Office.

Notable People from Enugwu-Ukwu:

Sir Clement Akpamgbo, SAN: Former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice (1991–1993), President of the Nigerian Bar Association in 1991, and one of Nigeria's pioneering law professors.

Ken Erics: Nigerian actor, singer, and writer.

Emeka Okafor: Professional basketball player with Ulsan Hyundai Mobis Phoebus.

Nkem Okeke: Politician and current Deputy Governor of Anambra State since March 17, 2014.

Bennet Omalu: Physician, pathologist, and neuropathologist; professor at the University of California.

Ugezu J. Ugezu: Nigerian actor, scriptwriter, and producer.