The Enugwu-Ukwu community in Njikoka Local Government Area has celebrated its 2024 Ikpoji festival, marking 948 years of the traditional event. The festival, rooted in the customs of the community, was a vibrant display of culture and unity.
This year’s celebration was sponsored by Chief Ignatius Abana, a former senator representing Anambra Central Senatorial District and a proud son of the community. The event began with a ceremonial procession led by the Ndi Nze na Ozo, who were dressed in traditional attire, moving from Obu-Umunri to Nkwo-market, accompanied by special cultural music.
At Ọbụ-Umunri, the designated host of the festival, Senator Abana, chosen by the community’s traditional ruler, performed the rituals and prayers necessary to purify and welcome the new yam into the market. This act symbolizes the beginning of the harvest season.
In a gesture of goodwill, Senator Abana provided cash gifts to 20 of the community’s poorest petty traders, aiming to boost their businesses. Additionally, he presented a tuber of yam to representatives of women from each village, as well as to the Ndi Nze na Ozo and honored guests of the community.
Following the rituals, the community members gathered at the Igwe’s Palace, where Senator Abana and Chief Clems Nwafo reported the festival’s proceedings to Igwe Ralph Ekpe. The traditional ruler expressed his gratitude to Senator Abana for successfully overseeing the event, especially in light of the challenging economic conditions in Nigeria. He noted that the Ikpoji festival is a vital way to preserve and celebrate the community’s rich cultural heritage.
The celebration concluded with a warm reception at Senator Abana’s residence, where attendees were treated to hospitality. In interviews, Chief Denis Anaekwe, the traditional prime minister of the community, and Chief Anthony Ugorji, the Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in Anaocha Local Government Area, highlighted the significance of the Ikpoji festival. They also praised Senator Abana for his generosity and urged other well-off individuals in Anambra State to follow his example.
