HRH Igwe Oforbike Alphonsus Ezeoke in a white cap with his cabinet members, others acknowledging cheers from the crowd.
By David Onwuchekwa
Amichi, a historic town in Nnewi South Local Government Area of Anambra State, came alive on Sunday, August 31, 2025 as its traditional ruler, His Royal Highness, Igwe Dr. Oforbike Alphonsus Ezeoke, led his people in the colourful celebration of the 2025 New Yam Festival.
The palace square was filled with a vibrant display of culture and tradition. There were masquerades, dance troupes, age grades, and guests from far and wide all gathered to pay homage to the Igwe and partake in the annual feast.
For the people of Amichi, the new yam festival is more than just a harvest thanksgiving; it is a binding tradition that reaffirms their identity and unity as a people.
For Igwe Ezeoke, the festival carries even deeper meaning. His ascension to the throne was hereditary, a responsibility passed down through his lineage. Since his enthronement, he has carried himself not only as a custodian of the throne but also as a guardian of ancestral heritage.
Known for his strong belief in customs and traditions, the Igwe often speaks about the enduring bond between the living and their ancestors, a bond he says sustains the community’s spiritual strength.
“Our ancestors lived and preserved these traditions for us,” he told his people during the ceremony. “It is our duty to preserve them for those coming after us. The new yam festival reminds us that hard work is rewarded, that we must give thanks to God, and that we honour our forebears who kept faith with our land, ”he noted.
The highlight of the festival was the symbolic breaking of the kola nut and the ceremonial roasting and eating of the first yam by the monarch, signaling the community’s readiness to enjoy the year’s harvest.
This was followed by cultural dances and traditional music that kept the town agog till late in the evening.
Indigenes and visitors alike praised Igwe Ezeoke for his commitment to sustaining the cultural pride of Amichi. Many described him as a monarch deeply connected to his people and their traditions, yet open to progress and development.
As the festival came to a close, one message remained clear: under the leadership of Igwe Dr. Oforbike Alphonsus Ezeoke, the heritage of Amichi continues to flourish, passing on to the younger generation not just the taste of yam, but the taste of identity.
There were so many dignitaries from within and outside Anambra State including traditional rulers who graced the event at the Igwe’s palace with the members of Igwe-in-Council fully on ground.
There were also various categories of gifts including cows from the Igwe’s subjects, friends and well-wishers.
