14th August, 2015
At least 5,000 indigenes, tourists and visitors would be expected to attend this year’s one-day new yam festival of Ibagwa-Nike community of Enugu State slated for Sunday, August 16.
Its traditional ruler, Emma Ugwu, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday that it would serve as a cultural reunion and the celebration of life for his indigenes.
“It would also be used to recreate cultural renaissance and foster unity among my people,” the traditional ruler said.
NAN reports that the event was being organised by the indigenes of Ibagwa-Nike and the National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO).
He said: “It’s a socio-cultural programme where the community’s sons and daughters, our in-laws, friends, associates, are expected to thank God for the gift of life.
“That is why the event will begin with a thanksgiving service at the community’s church.
“Most importantly, the community regards it as a love-feast because then the community will come and pay homage to their king bringing yams.
“The event will also include the presentation of yams to the traditional ruler by the indigenes of the town at the town’s local church in accordance with how God has blessed their farm produce.
“There will be various cultural performances, masquerade displays and plenty of food to eat and wine to drink.’’
Ugwu assured his-would be guests and visitors of adequate safety and security before, during and after the festival.
Also, Mr Nnaemeka Nwajagu, Enugu State Head of NICO, told NAN that the agency was collaborating with the community so as to showcase its rich cultural heritage to the outside world.
“We are always pleased to be associated with activities and events that promote our culture and tradition because, for us, it is a way of promoting our cultural unity.
“As such, our role in this year’s festival is to package their mode of dressing and other cultural activities,’’ he said.