Enugwu Village in Adazi-Enu Community, Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State, came alive with cultural festivities as it celebrated its annual New Yam Festival, locally known as “Iwa Ji Ofuu.” This highly anticipated event, steeped in tradition, is one of the most significant cultural celebrations in the village, attracting a large turnout of participants and spectators.
Held at Enugwu Hall, the festival drew notable figures, including members of the Igwe’s cabinet, the Otu Nze Na Ozo Group, and numerous sons and daughters of Enugwu Village. Dressed in vibrant traditional attire, the attendees gathered to offer prayers for a bountiful harvest and seek blessings for the year ahead.
The event was marked by the rhythmic sounds of the Ogene, Ekwe, and Udu drums, which resonated through the air, accompanied by traditional songs and dances that highlighted the rich cultural heritage of the Igbo people. The celebration reached its peak with the sacred cutting of the new yam by the village elders, symbolizing the commencement of the yam harvest season.
In his address, Chief Jideofor Okongwu, Chairman of Enugwu Village, offered prayers to the ancestors and deities of the land, asking for continued protection and prosperity for the community. He emphasized the importance of preserving the cultural heritage and expressed his hopes for a fruitful year.
Chief Emmanuel Chigozie, President General of Adazi-Enu Town Union, also spoke at the event, expressing his gratitude to the community for their enthusiastic participation and unwavering support. He underscored the festival’s role in fostering unity and preserving the community’s cultural identity.
Prince Dike Okongwu, in an interview, emphasized the significance of the New Yam Festival as a celebration of the community’s identity and heritage. He stressed the responsibility of ensuring that future generations continue to uphold these traditions.
Chief Chukwunaekego Felix, Chairman of the Adazi-Enu Town Union Lagos Branch, remarked that the festival not only marks the beginning of the harvest season but also serves as a reaffirmation of the community’s unity, culture, and shared values.
The event featured colorful masquerade displays, cultural dances, and traditional mbem performances. Additionally, youth empowerment initiatives were highlighted, contributing to the festival’s vibrant and inclusive atmosphere.
