It was a glorious moment and a mark of hope for greater things in Obeagu town, Awgu local government area of Enugu state celebrated the new yam festival (IRI JI OHURU) after eight long years.
The colourful event, which was held at Igwebike Primary School field, Obeagu, was symbolic of the growth, development, and progress of the town.
Since the death of the former traditional ruler, Igwe D.O.C. Aneke Ikemefune, the community has faced various challenges due to the absence of a leader.
The celebration also marked the ascension of the paramount ruler of the community, Igwe Okolo Sylvester Emeka Ojukwu, Chinyelugo I, and Nevonugama III of Obeagu ancient Kingdom.
Speaking on the occasion, the traditional ruler of Obeagu, Igwe Sylvester Okolo Emeka Ojukwu, said the festival was to unite the people and an opportunity to recalibrate the developmental concerns of the Kingdom.
“I am going to make sure that peace reigns in Obeagu by setting up peace committee that will ensure unity and peace in the kingdom.
“We will make sure that there will be nothing like stealing again in this community. Parents, you should look after your children, discipline them, warm and advice them.
“I will ensure that we address the issues and concerns from various groups in order to actualise the peace and progress that we need as a kingdom,” he said.
In a remark, President General of Obeagu, Ogbuefi Callistus Orjiogbu, said the Iri Ji festival was a way of honouring the ancestors and promoting the cultural heritage of Obeagu Kingdom.
“Yam, as the king of crops occupies a very important position both in the diet and socio-cultural lives of an Obeagu man.
“As the king of crops, it appears in important ceremonies like marriage festivals, birth and burial ceremonies as well as conferment of titles and reception of heroes. During such ceremonies, the most preferred food is usually pounded yam with egwushi, vegetable okwuru soup with meat and fish to taste.”
Also speaking, the chairman of the occasion and CEO of Big Brown Multichoice, Ogbuefi Obuneme Chukwu, described the event as a historic event that has united the villages of the community.
“Today is a great day in our community; this is the first time something like this is happening in our community. Our people say that there is no place like home. This is where I grew up, I schooled here, did everything here so I am happy to be here to enjoy with old time friends and relations,” he said.
