The people of Umueri Oke-ebo Kingdom in Anambra East Local Government Area gathered to celebrate the 2024 New Yam Festival, a significant cultural event that pays homage to yam, revered as the mother of all crops by the Igbo people. The occasion, held at the palace of Igwe Sir Benneth Emeka, the traditional ruler of Umueri, was a time for thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest and prayers for the upcoming farming season.
This year’s festival, known as Ịwa Ji Umueri, was a vibrant affair, attracting friends of Umueri, prominent Ndi Anambra, business leaders, industrialists, and traditional rulers from various communities. Guests from diverse walks of life came to share in the joy of Igwe Emeka and his people.
During the festivities, several groups including Umuada, Ndi Duru, Oluokala, and various quarters, families, and kindred in Umueri, along with business associates and well-wishers, paid homage to Igwe Emeka through various presentations.
Igwe Emeka, in his address, expressed gratitude to God for the successful harvest and led the traditional ceremony of kola breaking. He prayed for continued peace and development in Umueri and emphasized the importance of the festival in giving thanks for the year’s blessings and asking for a fruitful next season. The new yam was cut into three portions, symbolically representing the four quarters of Umueri: Ezi, Ikenga, Ivite, and Otuocha. Attendees were treated to roasted yams served with red oil and traditional condiments.
The monarch took the opportunity to commend Governor Chukwuma Soludo for his achievements in Anambra State, including free basic education, recruitment of teachers, road construction, free antenatal services, and the Ekwulobia flyover project. He also expressed appreciation for the peaceful relationship between Umueri and neighboring Aguleri, praising the mutual respect and collaboration with Eze Michael Idigo, Aguleri’s monarch.
Chief John Metchie, President General of Umueri General Assembly, emphasized the festival’s role in promoting unity and development in the community. Other notable speakers, including Chiefs Egbuna Okechi, Samuel Emeka, and Eluemuno, lauded the cultural significance of the New Yam Festival in preserving Igbo heritage and traditions.
The Chairman of the 2024 Ịwa Ji Umueri Planning Committee, Chief Eugene Aghaebe, and Secretary, Comrade Tochukwu Chukwudebelu, also expressed gratitude for the positive changes Igwe Emeka has brought to the community over the past seven years.
The event, which began with a non-denominational church service, also featured cultural displays and performances that highlighted the richness of Igbo culture.
