By Ngozi Okoli
The Ihite community in Orumba South Local Government Area of Anambra State has celebrated its 2026 Ihejioku Festival with a colourful display of traditional rites, cultural performances and communal festivities.
The celebration, held on Sept. 29, at the Palace Arena of the traditional ruler of Ihite, HRH Igwe Timothy Okwudili Ifurunwa, Ogbuodudu I, attracted traditional rulers, community leaders, dignitaries, business personalities, political representatives and residents.
One of the major highlights of the festival was the royal procession, during which Igwe Ifurunwa and members of his cabinet moved around the palace vicinity, receiving cheers from residents, visitors and well-wishers.
At the palace, the traditional ruler and his wife witnessed the traditional rites, which commenced with the presentation of kola nut, prayers, thanksgiving, blessings and the ceremonial breaking of the kola nut.
The new yam rite followed with the presentation of roasted yam to the monarch. After prayers for the wellbeing and prosperity of his people, Igwe Ifurunwa cut the yam and ceremonially ate the first portion.
He dipped the yam into palm-oil sauce prepared with local delicacies, including ukpaka, amid chants of “Igwe” from the gathering, signalling the commencement of the harvest celebration.
Speaking after the ceremony, Igwe Ifurunwa identified the successful observance of the Ihejioku traditions and improved security in the community as major highlights of the celebration. He said the peaceful environment contributed to the impressive turnout and renewed confidence among residents.
The President-General of Ihite Development Union, Chief George Madu Nwachinemere, alongside representatives of the diaspora community, paid homage to the monarch and expressed gratitude for the successful celebration while praying for his health, longevity and successful reign.
Traditional rulers from Eziagu, Ogbunka, Umuomaku, Ezinifite, Utuh, Enugu Umuonyia, Igboukwu and Nawfija were among the royal guests at the event, further strengthening cultural ties, unity and mutual respect among neighbouring communities.
The celebration also featured music, dancing, pageantry and masquerade displays, adding colour and excitement to the event while highlighting the community’s rich cultural heritage and reaffirming its commitment to preserving ancestral traditions for future generations.
Ngozi Okoli is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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