By Akuma Ebere
The Umuona Community in Aguata LGA, Anambra State, recently came together in a grand celebration of the New Yam Festival, led by their monarch, HRH Igwe IK S.C. Ezeofor, (Ezedioramma II of Umuona).
The event, held at Igwe’s palace, was a resounding success, bringing together clergymen, monarchs, honourable members, captains of industry and the community at large to appreciate God’s blessings and bounty.
The Igwe described the New Yam Festival as an ancient and annual celebration, expressing gratitude to God for the bountiful harvest and welcoming everyone present. Some of the Igwe’s cabinet members highlighted the importance of yam, citing its uses in traditional rites, appeasing gods and other festivals, emphasizing the need to reverence this great crop.
Hon. Okoli Samuel C., M.C. Uduji Onowu, Mmilienweilo and Obielike Dim Okoye applauded Igwe Ezedioramma II’s efforts on the throne, describing him as God-sent to the people of Umuona. They emphasized the significance of the New Yam Festival as an ancient tradition that gives meaning to their culture and tradition, advising the people to uphold their cultural heritage.
The event was a celebration of unity and progress, with the Igwe expressing joy to His Excellency, Prof. Charles Soludo and his wife, Mrs. Nonye, for taking agriculture to greater heights.
Princess Ezenwa-Iloh and Ozo Ebube Nnaya Umuona expressed their gratitude to God for the gift of life and for using the Igwe to bring development to the community, praying for more wisdom upon him to continue with equity and justice.
In appreciation, the Monarch thanked his subjects, especially his cabinet members, for their communal efforts towards uplifting their community, praying for long life upon him and his subjects to witness more progress. The Umuona community indeed came together to celebrate the New Yam Festival, embracing their culture and tradition.
