El Anatsui Bags Traditional Title - IKEDIRE of Nsukka
Oyiza Adaba and Uche Onyishi
Photos: Elijah Okoro for Africa-Related
NSUKKA - NIGERIA
Globally acclaimed sculptor and long-time Nsukka resident Ghanian artist EL Anatsui - IKEDIRE of Nsukka. Photo by Africa-Related.
AUGUST 24, 2019
On August 24, 2019, Emeritus Professor El Anatsui enjoyed an installation of a different kind. The traditional ruler of Ihe/Owerre Nsukka in Enugu State, Nigeria, Igwe George F. O. Asadu conferred a traditional title on the artistic icon and long-time resident of Nsukka (since 1975). In so doing, Prof El Anatsui was received into the Council of the Igwe and regarded as IKEDIRE.
Full Regalia: Emeritus Professor El Anatsui - Ikedire of Nsukka with the traditional ruler of Ihe/Owerre Nsukka in Enugu State, Nigeria Igwe George F. O. Asadu.
The traditional title of 'Ikedire', meaning 'power which is effective' reflects Anatsui's commitment to his adopted community of Nsukka, a university town in the south-east where he taught at the University of Nigeria from 1975 until he retired in 2012. Although this native son of Ghana has enjoyed world wide acclaim through his art, he is also known for his humanitarian and community initiatives, which directly impacts lives.
‘Intimidating’, was the word used by Prof. Greg Mbajiogu, a lecturer in theatre and film studies to describe Anatsui’s citation. Above the accolades and speeches was one shared sentiment - “This is an honour overdue”. Fiends and colleagues who attended the simple ceremony at the Igwe's home; agree that Anatsui's contributions have in no small measure put Nsukka on the world map.
In Igwe Asadu’s words, ‘Anyone that has remained happily in a place for 45yrs is long overdue its citizenship’.
For more info on El Anatsui, visit elanatsui.art . Watch El Anatsui’s biographical documentary here.
PHOTO HIGHLIGHTS
Photos by @africarelated