By Romanus Okoye
The traditional ruler of Umueri, Igwe Ben Emeka, Okebo II, today presided over the annual New Yam Festival (Iwaji) celebration of Umueri , drawing high-ranking government officials and community leaders to the ancient town in Anambra East Local Government Area.
Governor Charles Soludo’s administration was represented at the colourful ceremony by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Solomon Chukwudobelu, alongside the Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Community Affairs, Chief TonyCollins Nwabunwanne. Their presence underscored the state government’s commitment to preserving and promoting traditional cultural practices across Anambra communities.
The festival, which marks the beginning of the yam harvest season, holds deep significance in Igbo culture as both a thanksgiving celebration and a ritual that honours ancestral traditions. Meanwhile, the ceremony brought together indigenes of Umueri and visitors from neighbouring communities, creating an atmosphere of cultural unity and shared heritage.
During the proceedings, Igwe Ben Emeka used the occasion to emphasise the importance of maintaining cultural identity whilst embracing modern development. The traditional ruler’s leadership in organising the festival reflects ongoing efforts by royal fathers across the state to keep indigenous customs alive for future generations.
Furthermore, the participation of senior government officials signals the Soludo administration’s recognition of traditional institutions as partners in community development and cultural preservation. This collaboration between traditional and modern governance structures continues to shape policy implementation at the grassroots level throughout Anambra State.
The New Yam Festival serves as more than ceremonial observance, functioning as a platform for community bonding, conflict resolution, and the reinforcement of traditional values.
