Igbo Council of Elders United Kingdom has been praised for plans to be having Igbo new yam festival that will bring all the Igbo communities, organisations, groups, and individuals together in open field to celebrate the cultural event, Ogene Ndigbo Newspaper gathered.
In a communique issued after the Igbo Council of Elders’ meeting in London with various Igbo communities, groups, individuals and organisations, they stated the need to be having annual celebration of Igbo new yam festival (Iri Ji Ndigbo UK) which will bring all the Igbo communities together in an open field to celebrate the event.
According to the Elders, they said, a day will be mapped out for all the Igbo communities, organisations, groups, and individuals to come together in an open field to celebrate the cultural event.
Igbo New yam festival is annual cultural celebration that marks the end of the rainy season and start of the new harvest. It is a time to thank God for bountiful harvest, especially of yams. It connects Igbo communities together, the Elders said.
Chief, Barr, Edward Obioha, the former Chairman, Orlu local government in Imo state said, it is a right step in the direction. He called for more collaborations and stated the importance of keeping Igbo culture and tradition.
Chief Barr Chibuzo Ubochi hailed the idea. In his speech, he gave a reference of the significance of uplifting the Igbo culture.
Nze Okenze Oguabadike, a prominent custodian of Igbo culture and tradition supported the idea. He said, though communities can still celebrate theirs, but a day will be mapped out for all the Igbo people in the United Kingdom to come and celebrate together. He reiterated the need to work together.
Chief Godson Azu, the President, Abia State Union UK welcomed the idea. He stated the need to inquire various dates various communities celebrate theirs to avoid the date clashing with (Iri Ji Ndigbo UK). He emphasized on harmonising all the communities, groups, and organisations to work together and speak in one voice.
Chief Chidi Ezeonyeasi expressed his pleasure for the idea and said, he wants a united Igbo.
Hon. Ejike Ikezuagu in his remarks said, the festival is deeply rooted in Igbo cultural heritage and has profound spiritual significance. It is a time for Igbo communities to connect with their roots and celebrate their identity. He urged all Igbo communities, organisations, groups and individuals to be part of the event that will be kickstarting from next year 2025.
Barr. Ogugua Ebuzome backed the idea and expressed his gratitude to the people who organised the meeting.
Among the dignitaries that attended the meeting were: Barr, Ogugua Ebuzoeme, the principal officer, A. Vincent Solicitors, Nze Chukwuma Obidike, Rufina. Among others are, Chief Uche Osigwe (Agu Udo), Priest Ezemuo, Chief Ijioma Anyanwu, and other reputable Igbo sons and daughters.
To be part of the event and for more information, contact this number: +447459426542, Only Whatsapp.
