Obosi Monarch: New Yam Festival Fuels Cultural Revival, Community Growth

Nigeria’s rich cultural festivals, especially the New Yam Festival, have the potential to significantly boost the nation’s tourism, agriculture, and security sectors, according to His Royal Majesty Igwe Chidubem Iweka, the traditional ruler of Obosi in Anambra State’s Idemili North Local Government Area.

During the grand finale of the 2024 New Yam Festival, themed ‘Obiora/Iwaji’, held at Afor Adike Market Square, Igwe Iweka highlighted the event’s importance in fostering agricultural interests and instilling cultural pride in the youth.

The week-long festival kicked off with a youth carnival that highlighted Obosi’s rich cultural heritage through traditional dances. In his address, Igwe Iweka conducted the ceremonial yam cutting, expressing gratitude for the community’s abundant harvest.

“The New Yam Festival is integral to Igbo culture, providing a platform to celebrate agricultural achievements and instill an appreciation for farming, particularly among the youth. It is also a time to thank God for our fruitful harvest,” he remarked.

The monarch urged the residents of Obosi to uphold a peaceful environment, emphasizing that harmony is vital for the community’s growth and development.

“A dynamic culture enhances our national image and influence through diplomacy, trade, and cultural exchange,” he added, emphasizing the importance of tradition and cultural knowledge in fostering understanding and collaboration. He further urged the youth to reject violence and criminal activities, stating, “No economic hardship justifies resorting to crime.”

In his address, he emphasized the importance of sustaining peace and collaboration within the community and expressed appreciation for the local vigilance group.

“Movement Against Cultism,” for their proactive role in crime prevention, reinforcing the need for community unity in maintaining security.

“I have faced attacks, but through the grace of God and the support of our Vigilante group, we continue to safeguard Obosi and the Idemili regions,” he noted.

During the event, Igwe Iweka honored three distinguished members of the community with chieftaincy titles, including Chief Okey Molokwu, who was named Ezeudo of Obosi.

Chief Chimezie Obi, the Present General of Obosi community, noted that over 85 percent of crimes in the area are committed by non-indigenes. He praised the community’s improved security situation since his tenure began, attributing it to collaborative efforts. “We pursue criminals, often going to their residences to apprehend them. Our crime reports reveal that most offenses are committed by outsiders,” he stated.

Addressing concerns about an alleged attempted kidnapping and recent violence, Obi assured the community that police investigations would shed light on the incidents.

The Coordinator of the Obiora Obosi festival, Chief Olunna Ofodile, echoed these sentiments, praising the current leadership’s role in restoring safety and security. “The community sleeps peacefully, free from the scourge of crime, thanks to the efforts of our traditional ruler and security operatives,” he concluded.

The festival attracted spectators, including members of the Obosi Development Union, who witnessed various cultural troupes perform. Igwe Iweka joined in the festivities, celebrating the rich diversity of the community.

Oluchi Okwuego