Umueze Village in Amawbia, Awka South Local Government Area, Anambra State, marked a significant milestone with the successful celebration of its 47th Eze-Akaa festival, showcasing its vibrant cultural heritage and reinforcing the sense of unity that defines the community.
Nze Raluchukwu Nwonu, the chairman of the occasion, expressed his joy and pride in the growth of the Eze-Akaa festival. “Having attended this event since my childhood, I’m delighted to see it evolve with new additions while staying true to its traditions. The joy here is palpable, and I commend the leadership and planning committee of Umueze Village for preserving these customs,” he said. Nwonu also offered prayers for the village’s continued growth and unity, eagerly anticipating the next festival in 2025.
Mr. Ikechukwu Okeke, Chairman of the Umueze Welfare Association (UWA), welcomed attendees to the event, which celebrates the community’s rich cultural heritage every December 26th. He outlined his administration’s accomplishments, such as transforming the Umueze Vigilante into an effective security force, constructing security gates, and adding archways to enhance both safety and the aesthetic appeal of the community. Okeke also mentioned efforts to renovate the Umueze Village Hall, previously used as the NYSC Secretariat, and called for donations to help restore it.
In his closing remarks, Okeke expressed his gratitude to the people of Umueze for their steadfast support and prayed for the continued prosperity of the village and its people.
At Obu Eze-Akaa, Sir Willie Nwokoye, former Principal Secretary to Governor Willie Obiano, addressed the longstanding vacancy of Amawbia’s seat in the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council Chamber, which had been unoccupied for 35 years due to the incapacitation of Igwe Ositadinma Okoye. He emphasized the need for the appointment of a certified traditional ruler and urged the community to support the election of Okpaligwe in 2025 to fill the seat. Ozonkpu Eddy Nwokoye, also called for action to ensure Amawbia’s prominence is preserved, especially with the government house relocation to Awka.
Nze Uche Okonkwo, an aspirant for Okpaligwe, shared his perspective on the festival, underscoring its importance as a cherished tradition. He commended the village for recognizing individuals who have contributed to its development, hoping the awards will inspire continued generosity.
Mr. Uchenna Okeke, Chairman of the 47th Eze-Akaa Festival Planning Committee, expressed his joy over the success of the event and prayed for Umueze Village’s continued positive influence, setting an example for others through its exemplary leadership.
The festival featured cultural highlights such as awards for outstanding individuals, masquerades, traditional dances from men’s and women’s groups, and a Ufvie dance performed by Nze na Ozo titleholders. The 47th Eze-Akaa festival demonstrated Umueze Village’s commitment to celebrating its traditions while fostering unity and progress within the community.
