The Executive Mayor of Isuikwuato Local Government Area, Hon. Chinedu Ekeke, has commended the people of Otampa for their commitment to preserving Igbo culture and traditions, describing the annual Iriji celebration as an important expression of the identity and heritage of Ndi Igbo.
Mayor Ekeke gave the commendation while attending the Iriji celebration in Otampa, where traditional rulers, community leaders, distinguished sons and daughters of the community, and lovers of Igbo culture gathered to celebrate the new yam season and reaffirm their cultural heritage.
Speaking at the event, Mayor Ekeke described Iriji as a sacred tradition inherited from the forefathers and cherished by Igbo people across the world. He said preserving such traditions helps communities maintain a strong connection with their history while passing their values and identity to younger generations.
“Iriji is a sacred tradition practiced by our forefathers and held dear by Ndi Igbo all over the world,” the Mayor said.
He praised Otampa for sustaining the celebration and ensuring that its cultural traditions remain relevant despite changing times. According to him, community festivals such as Iriji provide an opportunity not only to celebrate the harvest but also to strengthen unity, communal bonds and appreciation for Igbo culture.
Mayor Pledges Support for Cultural Initiatives
The Mayor pledged that the Isuikwuato Local Government Administration would continue to support community events and initiatives that promote cultural heritage, unity and positive social values.
He said the commitment aligns with the broader development vision of the administration of Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, which recognises the importance of communities in advancing social and economic development.
Mayor Ekeke added that the Local Government would continue working with communities, traditional institutions and other stakeholders towards the advancement of Isuikwuato and the overall development of Abia State.
Traditional and Community Leaders Attend Celebration
The Iriji celebration attracted prominent traditional and community leaders from Otampa and beyond.
Among those present were HRH Eze Young Umesiobi, Ota I of Otampa; Chief Bosco Oleh, Eze Okonko; Chief Paul Onyeabor, Akajiugo; and Chief Chike Onya.
The President-General of Otampa, Mr. Onyebuchi Elendu, was represented by the Deputy President-General, Mr. Sunday Uzoigwe.
Members of the Otampa Council of Chiefs, Ndi Nze, Ndi Okonko, women and youth groups, other members of the community and lovers of culture also participated in the celebration.
Distinguished Guests
The event was also attended by several distinguished guests, including Ken Ahia, SAN; The Mayor, Hon. Chinedu Ekeke; Hon. Lucky Johnson; Mr. Chidiebere Uguru; Sir Emma Peters; Hon. Onyekachi Aguocha; Mr. Chimaobi Ben Okorie; Hon. Chima Agbaeze; Chief Prosper Aruike Ejimofor (Escalade); Hon. Harrison Onuke; Mr. Prej Ifeanyi Iroegbu (Eze Ji Isuikwuato); High Chief Johnny Ndukauba, PhD; Mr. Chijioke Chukwu, State Chairman of the APC; AVM Chinwendu Onyike (Rtd.); Chief Jerry Chijioke Oleka; and Engr. Celestine Obasi of Downtown Engineering.
Beyond the festivities, the Iriji celebration provided an opportunity for the people of Otampa to reaffirm the values of communal identity, respect for tradition and the preservation of indigenous heritage.
The celebration of the new yam occupies an important place in Igbo culture, reflecting gratitude for the harvest and providing communities with an occasion to gather, celebrate and strengthen relationships.
For Otampa, the event also demonstrated the continuing role of traditional institutions, community organisations, women, youths and other groups in ensuring that cultural practices are preserved and transferred from one generation to another.
Preserving Culture While Advancing Development
Mayor Ekeke’s participation further underscored the Isuikwuato Local Government Administration’s commitment to supporting community initiatives that strengthen social cohesion and preserve the cultural identity of the people.
The administration said it would continue to encourage programmes and events that promote culture, unity, community development and positive social values while working with the Abia State Government and relevant stakeholders to advance the interests of Isuikwuato.
By sustaining celebrations such as Iriji, the people of Otampa continue to demonstrate that development and modernisation can coexist with respect for history, identity and the traditions handed down by previous generations.
The Local Government Administration reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with communities across Isuikwuato to preserve their heritage, strengthen communal bonds and promote sustainable community development.
