Utumbadike Marks Annual New Yam Festival, Prays For Unity, Prosperity
By Uche Nnabuchi, Nnewi
The Utumbadike Community in Nnewi South Local Government Area of Anambra State has joyfully celebrated its annual New Yam Festival.
The event, which drew the presence of sons and daughters of the community, traditional rulers from various communities, invited guests, friends and well-wishers, was held at the palace of the traditional ruler of Utumbadike.
In an interview with journalists, the Traditional Ruler of the community, His Royal Highness, Igwe Peter Ilomuanya, said he was highly impressed with the arrangements and the organization of the event.
He expressed gratitude to God Almighty for the successful celebration of this year’s New Yam Festival, noting that the event was celebrated in an atmosphere of peace and without rancour.
The Royal Father prayed for peace and unity in the community. He also prayed God to bless and replenish all those who contributed both in cash and in kind to the success of the celebration.
He further wished all sons and daughters of Utumbadike long life and good health.
The President General of the community, Hon. Ignatius Ofodi, reaffirmed that the New Yam Festival was successfully celebrated, attributing the hitch-free event to the love of God for the community.
He commended the organizers for proper planning and expressed optimism that next year’s edition would be bigger and better.
Also speaking, the General Secretary of the community, Prince Okonna Mbanefo, described the New Yam Festival as an annual event and a long-standing cultural heritage of Igboland.
He disclosed that the festival is celebrated between the 7th and 8th month of every year, explaining that it is a ceremony to appreciate God for a bountiful harvest.
Prince Mbanefo, popularly known as Ichie Ife-Abata, noted that before a traditional ruler or any titled person eats new yam, they must wait until the yam is formally celebrated.
He emphasized the significance of yam in Igboland, describing it as the "king of crops" and the reason it commands more respect than other farm produce.
“Our traditional ruler, Igwe Ilomuanya, is a peace-loving man. He loves our community and I wish him long life and good health. May God continue to give him wisdom and protection" Prince Mbanefo prayed.
