By Ebere Akuma
The rich cultural heritage of Adazi-Ani community in Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State came alive at the weekend as youths of the community staged a colourful 2026 New Yam Festival, drawing sons and daughters of the soil, residents and culture enthusiasts to Eke Market Square.
The festival, organised by the Anambra State Town Union Councils (ASTUC) Youth, Adazi-Ani, under the leadership of its President, Comrade Chukwuma Eyisi, was marked by cultural displays, music, masquerades and traditional rites aimed at promoting unity, peace and community cohesion.
Sons and daughters of Adazi-Ani, both at home and in the diaspora, as well as friends and lovers of Igbo culture, thronged the venue to celebrate the annual festival.
A major highlight of the event was the traditional breaking of the yam by Chief Sir J. C. Onwuazo (Ichie Omenife), signalling the commencement of the year’s harvest celebration.
The traditional ruler of Adazi-Ani, His Royal Majesty (Dr.) Chinedu Madubuko, EzeChinechendo of Adazi-Ani, was represented by Chief Williams Madubuko (Ichie Ikejiejemba), who attended the ceremony alongside other members of the traditional entourage.
Chairman of the occasion, Chief Emeka Okpala (Ezekwupulana), commended the youth body for sustaining the cultural heritage of the community.
Chief Okpala also supported the festival financially and prayed for the continuation of programmes capable of strengthening unity and development in Adazi-Ani.
Secretary of ASTUC, Hon. Casmir Oselu (Ezennia-Obinyelugo), explained that the festival, locally known as Chieke or Iwaji Adazi-Ani, is an age-long tradition handed down from the ancestors.
According to him, the festival is traditionally held at the market square as a symbol of unity, peace and oneness among the people.
He explained that it takes place a few days after Ikpoji, a traditional ceremony performed at the Ukwuabosi tree, where participants drink from one cup as a symbol of love and togetherness.
President-General of Adazi-Ani, Prof. Obikwelu Okonkwo, applauded the youths for reviving and promoting the cultural celebration, noting that the initiative had added colour and vibrancy to the community and attracted both indigenes and non-indigenes.
In his remarks, the Youth President, Comrade Chukwuma Eyisi, expressed appreciation to all those who attended the festival, as well as partners and supporters who contributed to its success.
Chairman of the Organising Committee, Mr. Tochukwu Chindo, popularly known as High Tension, also thanked individuals and groups that supported the programme, with special appreciation to youth bodies including Ubasinachi, Chidera and Chinemeze age grades.
Masquerades and musical performances added further colour and excitement to the celebration, creating a lively atmosphere at the market square.
Members of the organising committee included Comrade Chukwuma Eyisi, Comrade Kosiso Ozoh, Hon. Casmir Oselu, Comrade Ozioma Ezejelue, Comrade Chizoba Sopuru, Lady Ozioma Ezeh, Mr. Tochukwu Chindo, Mr. Nzube Obiefuna, Mr. Chinedu Okpala, Mr. Henry Okoye, Mr. Ebuka Okwulogu, Chief Chinonso Ekemutalu and Mr. Ezenwugo Arinze.
