The ancient Amozalla Affa Autonomous Community, under the leadership of His Royal Highness, Igwe Marius Uwadiegwu Okeke, Ezeuna II of Amozalla Affa, is set to host its much-anticipated Iwa Ji/Akani Festival. This grand cultural event, deeply rooted in the rich traditions of the community, will be held on Saturday, 26th October 2024, at the Afor Agunamu Market Square, with a mass starting at 10:00 am prompt.
The Igwe and his council, alongside the esteemed Amozalla Affa Town Union, the revered Ozor title holders, and the festival’s planning committee, warmly invite the general public to join them in celebrating this significant occasion. The event will be chaired by High Chief (Sir) Venantus Adoga (Onwa n’Affa – KSJI), Chairman of the Planning Committee, with Chief Hon. Chibuzor Agbachi (Ogbunechendo) serving as the Secretary, and endorsed by Chief Hon. Eusebius Oyigbo (Aninaefungwu), President-General of the Amozalla Affa Autonomous Community’s Town Union.
The Iwa Ji/Akani Festival is a celebration of yam harvest and thanksgiving for a bountiful farming season. It represents the cultural pride and agricultural heritage of the Amozalla people. Yam, revered as the king of crops, will be symbolically presented to the community by its farmers and celebrated with traditional rites.
Highlights of the Festival
The festival promises a captivating showcase of Amozalla’s cultural heritage, offering an enriching experience for all attendees. Some of the key activities include:
- Yam Harvest and Presentation: A sacred ceremony where the best yams are presented to the Igwe and the community, marking the official commencement of the harvest season.
- Annual Wrestling Matches: A thrilling display of physical strength, agility, and sportsmanship, showcasing Amozalla’s tradition of wrestling as a form of entertainment and cultural pride.
- Conferment of Chieftaincy Titles: Distinguished sons, daughters, and friends of the community, who have excelled in various fields, will be honored with Chieftaincy titles in recognition of their contributions.
- Traditional Music and Dance: Spectators will be treated to performances by local dancers, drummers, and masquerades, reflecting the vibrancy and spirit of the community.
The event will also feature numerous side attractions, including a variety of local delicacies, cultural displays, and craft exhibitions. The festival not only serves as a time of celebration but also as a platform to strengthen the unity and identity of the Amozalla Affa people.
This year’s festival promises to be a unique experience, as it highlights the resilience, culture, and achievements of the Amozalla Affa Autonomous Community. It is an opportunity to witness the timeless traditions of the Igbo people while honoring the past, celebrating the present, and looking forward to a prosperous future.
All are invited to come and witness this grand occasion. Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of history and to experience the rich cultural tapestry of Amozalla Affa Autonomous Community.
For more information, you can contact the Planning Committee, chaired by High Chief (Sir) Venantus Adoga, and co-coordinated by Chief Hon. Chibuzor Agbachi, or reach out to the Amozalla Affa Town Union.
Signed:
High Chief (Sir) Venantus Adoga (Onwa n’Affa - KSJI), Planning Committee Chairman
Chief Hon. Chibuzor Agbachi (Ogbunechendo), Planning Committee Secretary
On behalf of the President-General of Amozalla Affa Autonomous Community’s Town Union, Chief Hon. Eusebius Oyigbo (Aninaefungwu).
