Soludo Administration Prohibits Unofficial New Yam Celebrations

The Anambra State Government has put its foot down on the holding of separate New Yam festivals in communities across the state.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the Commissioner for Local Government and Community Affairs, Chief Vin Ezeaka, said the government will no longer tolerate individuals and groups organizing their own “Iwa Ji” or “Iri Ji” ahead of, or on the same day as, their traditional rulers.

According to Champion Newspaper, the warning came after the ministry noticed a rise in what it called unlawful celebrations that clash with the culture and traditions of the people.

Ezeaka said the government had earlier sent a letter to all Presidents-General and royal fathers to address the issue. But despite that, some people have continued to go ahead with their own versions of the festival.

“The government has observed that certain individuals and groups now organize new yam celebrations in their communities before the traditional ruler, or on the same day with him,” Ezeaka stated.

He added that the act is a direct takeover of the royal fathers’ cultural rights and could trigger unrest in affected areas.

To that end, the state government has issued a fresh directive that takes effect immediately.

“Henceforth, no person or group is permitted to hold New Yam Festival whatever name it is called before the traditional ruler or on the same date with him,” the commissioner declared.

The Soludo administration said the move is aimed at protecting tradition, preserving order, and ensuring respect for the institution of the traditional ruler in Anambra communities.

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