Although this might be prompted by the fetishism, superstition or voodooism of the IPOB, but it is completely in consonant with long-standing Igbo custom, and, of course Christian belief and tradition.
Jesus was buried immediately after his death. The Saints whom we venerate today were buried immediately after their death.
My hero, Saint Pope John Paul II wanted a simple burial in a simple four boards. And we all saw and admired his modest funeral and the cheap casket in which his remain rested.
In the past in Igbo land, there were no mortuaries and systems to preserve corpses, consequently, the dead were buried on the very day or next in which they died. The funerals were damned very solemn and befitting in those days
The unnecessary extravagant funeral carnivals being celebrated in most parts of Igbo land today are at variance with Christian practices and Igbo custom. Above all, these extravagant funerals and funeral exhibitionisms are mockeries of the dead.
Our dead loved ones should be given a solemn and befitting burials devoid of extravagant vanity and showism. For example, carrying of corpses by hired funeral undertakers and dancing around the compound.
The home people, in the name of “culture” demanding for a cow or cows unmindful of the fact that many bereaved cannot afford to buy a cow.
My point is that to bury our loved ones with dignity and solemnity, we do not need to indulge in extravagant display of opulence which is neither Igbo custom nor Christian rite.
IPOB has awoken our consciences in this matter. I do not believe in IPOB but this is one truth they are telling us. It is either we get it right or continue to toe the path of perfidy.
Christians should put their Christian faith into practice. You cannot be a Christian inside the Church only to be a pagan at funeral exhibitionism.
You must be a Christian at all times. And please don’t try to rationalize huge funeral expenses. Not worthwhile. Read more.