Iduma Enwo Igariwey, member representing Afikpo/Edda Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has called for sustained promotion of the New Yam Festival as a means of preserving Igbo culture and advancing agricultural development.
Igariwey made the call on Sunday at Ugwu Ovum Mgbom, Afikpo, during the 6th Okpudo Ikeji Annual Lecture Series.
He described the Ikeji Festival as an important cultural heritage that promotes unity, social development and communal identity, stressing that its significance goes beyond the celebration of agricultural harvest.
The lawmaker said the festival could also serve as a platform for cultural revival, intellectual engagement, showcasing indigenous talents and encouraging younger generations to appreciate agriculture and their cultural heritage.
Oguguo Egwu, Professor and Guest Lecturer, described the New Yam Festival in Afikpo and Edda as a spiritual, agricultural and cultural event that traditionally marks the beginning of a new year.
Egwu said the festival had evolved beyond its traditional ritual functions to assume wider socio-political and developmental significance.
The event, themed “Anatomy of the Ikeji Festival: Assessing the Socio-Cultural Significance of a Shared Identity and Peaceful Co-existence in Afikpo-Edda,” attracted traditional rulers, community leaders, academics, youths and residents from across the two clans.
The event also featured colourful cultural dances by women from different communities in Ehugbo, highlighting the rich cultural heritage of the people.
Source link
Read Full Article by Nkechinyere Oginiyi at businessday.ng
Source link
