History, Origin, Culture and Traditions of Okpuno Town in Anambra state

 
##The History of Okpuno Town
Between 950 and 1050 AD, the Authority of Eri was established in the central Anambra River Valley. Eri’s second wife, Oboli, gave birth to Onoja, who left Anambra and became one of the founders of Igalaland. The migration of Eri's descendants and others from Igalaland led them to settle in the area now known as Okpuno.

Two brothers, Okpu and Okochiegbuolodo, were the first to settle in Okpuno. Okpu settled in the central region, while Okochiegbuolodo took residence in the northeast. Okpu had two children, Ezi and Ifite, who spread out across the central area. Okochiegbuolodo’s son, Odu, settled with his mother in the east, while the other children lived in the southwest. The eastern settlement later became the third original village of Okpuno, called Nodu, and the southwestern settlement became the fourth village, known as Umuodu.

The name Okpuno is derived from the founders' names—Okpu and Okochiegbuolodo, sometimes simplified as Okpu-na-Okochi. Over time, the name was shortened to Okpuno. A misconception exists that the name "Okpunokochi" sounds like "Okpunoawkachi," suggesting that Awka was the origin of Okpuno. However, this is a historical error. Okoye Nwakpoto, originally from Akpoto in Igala, was brought by the people of Awka to prepare the "Imoka" shrine. People feared his magical powers, and Okoye later integrated with the Nodu people, living there until his death.

The early inhabitants of Okpuno were primarily farmers and skilled native doctors. The farmers grew yams, coco yams, maize, okra, melons, palm oil, and kernels, which they sold for their needs. The wealthier members used their earnings to acquire titles. The native doctors, with their magical powers, protected Okpuno from external threats. Some of the most renowned among them were Ogworji, Oduocha, Nwankat, Okoye Nwakpoto, Muoguluwa, Obinma, and Ikeanyionwu. There were also legendary hunters, such as Gbatuo Okoye, Nwoakafor Amefuna, and Udozor Atansi Obodo, known for their ability to kill without even seeing their prey.

The early settlers of Okpuno rejected missionaries who attempted to settle near Obibia Hill, close to the Obiobia stream. The local medicine men used their magical powers to summon harmful flies and insects, driving the missionaries away. Eventually, the missionaries settled in Awka, where they established St. Paul's College. It was only later, when the missionaries returned for evangelism, that the people of Okpuno accepted them.

In contemporary times, Okpuno has experienced significant development, especially under the leadership of Chief Obidinma Okafor. He supported the establishment of St. John’s Church and Primary School, laying the foundation for educational growth in the town. Subsequently, several other schools and institutions were established, including the Retreat Center, Community Secondary School, Tansi International School, and Pope John Paul Seminary. This shift has ignited a thirst for knowledge among the people of Okpuno.

The creation of Anambra State and the location of the state capital in Awka in 1991 brought further development to Okpuno. Since the advent of democratic governance, Okpuno has benefited from these advancements. Several new residential layouts, such as Aguchi, Odadi, Agbolo, and Obunumo, have been established. The Anambra State government has also improved communication within the capital territory by opening access roads between villages.

Okpuno continues to progress, thanks in large part to the efforts of its current traditional ruler, His Majesty Igwe Engr. Sunday I. Okafor. His leadership led to the electrification of Okpuno, marking a pivotal moment in the town’s development. This achievement has paved the way for rapid economic growth and further prosperity in Okpuno.