Igwe Ambassador Johnmark Anyaoha, the traditional ruler of Ogbunka in Orumba South Local Government Area of Anambra State, has presided over the 2024 New Yam Festival, a significant cultural event for the community. The celebration, held at the Igwe’s palace, began with a holy mass and featured the traditional paying of homage by various community groups and dignitaries, including members of the Igwe-In-Council, Ndi Amaala, Ndi Odinala, and Umu Okpu.
During the holy mass, Reverend Father Jeremiah Okafor of St. Monica’s Catholic Church, Ogbunka, emphasized the importance of gratitude to God for a bountiful harvest and reminded attendees of the necessity of seeking divine guidance in all endeavors.
As part of the festival’s proceedings, Igwe Anyaoha ceremonially cut the new yam, offering prayers for peace, unity, and prosperity within the Ogbunka community and for their well-wishers.
In his address, Igwe Anyaoha commended Governor Chukwuma Soludo for the ongoing development projects in the community. He also called for further attention to be given to the road linking Ogbunka to Abia State, urging his people to continue their unwavering support for the Soludo administration.
Chief Bernard Eze, the Secretary of Ogbunka Palace, along with Chiefs Innocent Osunkwo and Michael Ezenwa, members of the festival’s planning committee, hailed the 2024 New Yam Festival as a remarkable success and prayed for many more years of leadership under Igwe Anyaoha.
Other notable figures, including Comrade Chigozie Ikeagwu, the National President of a social club in Ogbunka, Mrs. Godgiift Tagboo, Chairlady of Umu Okpu Ogbunka, and Amaechi Ikeagwu, Ogbunka Youth Leader, expressed optimism for continued blessings and prosperity for the community in the years to come.
