By Udeigwe Chidera

In the heart of Awhum (sometimes spelled “Ohum”), a town steeped in history, in Udi Local Government Area, Enugu State; the Ukwaakpu tree stands tall, an ancient sentinel of tradition and spirituality. Despite the winds of change and the spread of Christianity, this majestic tree remains an unyielding symbol, weaving together the past and present in a tapestry of cultural richness.

The Awhum Waterfall and Cave bears glory to the ancestral heritage of the people.

Known as the fourth son of Ojebe ogene, Awhum carries the weight of its ancestry in its very roots. Abor, umurumgbe, ukana, okpatu, Eve—these are not just names; they are chapters in the town’s narrative, etched into the bark of the towering Ukwaakpu tree. The community’s lifeblood, rooted in farming and hunting, pulses through the veins of tradition that bind them to this sacred site.

Beyond the physical realm, the Ukwaakpu tree is whispered to be a haven for spirits. Villagers share tales of dire situations where, in dreams, the spirit within the tree guides them home. A mystical force, resilient against storms, erosion, and fire, the tree becomes a spiritual compass in the labyrinth of existence.

Nestled near the Anglican Church, a three-way road converges, leading to Amofia Ibite, Amani, and the sacred market square known as Obodoeke. This junction becomes a ceremonial crossroads where sacrifices are made during significant occasions, a place where spirits are believed to converge. It echoes the town’s commitment to preserving rituals in the face of changing times.

Interviews unveil stories of another Ukwaakpu tree that met a tragic fate when it was felled. The consequences were dire, as those involved faced untimely deaths. The surviving tree, standing tall today, bears witness to the importance of respecting the sacred bonds that tie the community to its spiritual roots.

Even with Christian churches dotting the landscape, the Ukwaakpu tree stands as a resilient reminder of Awhum’s genesis. It provides shade to those waiting for transportation, serves as an address, and, most importantly, remains a testament to the enduring spirit of a town unyielding in the face of evolving beliefs.

The Glory of Awhum Waterfall

The Awhum Waterfall is located at Amu-Ugwu village of Awhum town in Udi Local Government Area, Enugu State, Nigeria. It’s formed out of a massive outcrop of granite rock with water flow at the top forming a stream. Some part of the waterfall is usually warm through the seasons. The Awhum waterfall is 30 metres high and is located near the Awhum Monastery.

The water is said to be curative (have healing power) and capable of dispelling evil forces if and wherever it is sprinkled. It takes about 45 minutes’ walk from the parking spot to the fall. The site is particularly good for religious tourism.

Awhum’s waterfall is believed to have healing powers and the ability to ward off evil spirits. Because of this, a monastery was built close to the waterfall site. This has made the waterfall cave a pilgrimage and a prayer centre for Christians, the site is sacred and therefore entry to it is regulated by the monastery.

Awhum (sometimes spelled “Ohum”), is located in a lush green valley is famous not only for its waterfall, but also for its many pristine lakes and streams.

The Awhum Waterfall is also a popular tourist location in Nigeria

The Our Lady of Mount Calvary Monastery, a nearby Catholic organization, manages the water cave even though it is owned by the Awhum village people.

Visitors to the cave and waterfall (apart from locals) must pay a charge before being permitted entry. They can rent lodgings inside the monastery. Holidays like Christmas and Easter typically see more people visiting the monastery

A Culture Resilience Amidst Change

In a dance between old and new, masquerades still pay homage to the sacred tree. Indigenes seeking favor from their homeland continue to offer sacrifices, seamlessly blending tradition with the contemporary landscape. The town’s traditionalists, during “igo ofo” prayers, invoke the spirits, underscoring the deep connection that transcends time.

As modernity encroaches, the Ukwaakpu tree in Awhum stands as a living testament to an unending tradition. Its branches reach into the future, embracing the changing winds while holding steadfast to the roots that ground this extraordinary town.