…Promises to Lead Next Year’s Celebration in Oraukwu
By Mmaduabuchi Onwumelu
The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) Idemili North Local Government Area standard bearer for the September 28th Local Government Elections in Anambra State, Hon. Stanley Nkwoka, has described yam as the most respected staple food in Igbo Land and called on well-to-do individuals to invest heavily in subsequent celebrations, even as he promised to lead the way next year.
The Solution Transition Committee Chairman of Idemili North stated this while paying homage to the Traditional Ruler of Oraukwu Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Barrister (Dr) Emeka Onuorah, who celebrated the Iwaji Oraukwu (New Yam Festival) held at Imeobi Oraukwu.
The Chief Servant of the most populous and densely populated local government area of Anambra emphasized that yam was held in high esteem in Igbo Land and was celebrated in a special way before it was eaten, known as Iwa-Ji or Iri-ji, depending on the Igbo dialect.
The TC Chairman who holds the chieftaincy title of “Idi Akusinachi” in Abatete, noted that in many Igbo communities, the Igwe would be the first to celebrate the New Yam Festival.
He further noted that the New Yam Festival was a significant part of Igbo Culture and Tradition, reiterating that yam was highly respected in Igbo Land as the most prominent staple food which Igbos cultivated in large quantities.
‘Yam is highly regarded more than other crops in Igbo Land. If someone steals yam, after being punished, they must perform traditional rites to appease the gods. This demonstrates the importance of yam in Igbo Land,’ Nkwoka said.
‘Therefore, we do not joke with the New Yam Festival. In the book, ”Things Fall Apart”, the New Yam Festival of Ogidi was highlighted. Igbo culture is not about idol worshipping; it is about a clean heart and uprightness. There is no idol worshipping involved in the New Yam Festival,’ he said.
The council boss criticized those claiming that there is idol worshipping in the New Yam Festival, stressing that they were not well-informed about Igbo Culture and Tradition.
Receiving the TC Chairman, HRM Barr. Onuorah, expressed gratitude to God for allowing them to see yet another round of celebration, even as he asked God to continue to guide and protect the number one citizen of Idemili North, describing him as humility personified.
The Chief Worker of Idemili North Local Government Area was warmly received alongside his entourage.
The point of the occasion were: the conferment of the chieftaincy title of Diji; competition; award of prizes and certificates; cultural displays; as well as brief interaction between the TC Chairman and the Chairman of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Anambra State Chapter, Obi Emeka Udodeme.
