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By Ngozi Nwoke
It was a convivial atmosphere in Lagos when the Igbo, their associates and friends gathered to celebrate a bountiful harvest. It was iwaji/iriji (new yam) festival hosted by Eze Chika Nwokedi, Eze Ndigbo of Ijegun/Ijeododo, at the weekend.
For the Igbo, yam is the king of crops and the celebration symbolises the conclusion of a harvest and beginning of the next circle. It was an occasion for people to express their gratitude to God for a bountiful harvest. It was also an occasion to display Igbo cultural activities such as dances by various groups and masquerade display. Traditional dishes and palm wine were served.
Indeed, the cultural buoyancy of Ndigbo was on parade. It was a cultural spectacle of feasting and dancing, even as men and women adorned resplendent traditional attire.
In his welcome address, Eze Chika Nwokedi, Eze Ndigbo of Ijegun/Ijeododo, said the iwaji/iriji ceremony was an annual traditional event of the Igbo wherever they find themselves. According to him, in keeping with Igbo tradition and culture, it is obligatory for him to observe this age-long tradition that was laid down by their ancestors.
He said: “The iwaji/iriji ceremony is a way of thanking God for His grace mercies on his people for having gone through the hard times of lean cultivation season to the bountiful time of harvest. In the scripture it is said that ‘there is time for everything’ (Eccl. 3: 1 – 8). So, this is time for harvest.
“Many people planted and were not alive to harvest. Therefore, we that are alive have have cause to glorify the Lord and this is the reason we all have gathered here today. For those that sowed, this is your time to reap. The Scripture also says that ‘whatever you sow shall you reap (2 Cor. 9:6).
“My brethren, I urge all of us to be happy and appreciate God for giving us the opportunity to witness another season of harvest.
“The iwaji is an Igbo community affair being presided over by the king surrounded by his cabinet and akajiofors/elders in the community with the citizens as the congregation.
“May all who are present here to witness this my maiden ceremony of iwaji reap bountifully where they have sowed. For those who were not able to sow, God will give them the strength, resources and the courage to sow like others by the next season.”
One of the special guests, Chief Ofoegbu said that it is the culture of Ndigbo to show gratitude to the supreme God for bountiful harvest.
He said: “New yam festival is one of the ways we celebrate God’s goodness unto us. There is nothing fetish about what we are doing. This is harvest season and as our is, we are celebrating and thanking God. You know, if you show appreciation for God’s goodness and mercy, He will visit again.”
Chief Ofoegbu urged his kinsmen men in peace with their neighbour, respect constituted authorities and obey the laws of the land.
Eze Nwokedi also gave merit award to some of the personalities who have impact lives positively. One of the awardees in whom the traditional ruler is well pleased is an entrepreneur and philanthropist, Chief Uche Kalu. He commended Uche not only for creating employment opportunities for the youths but also being his brother’s keeper.
In a chat, Chief Uche Kalu said he was very happy to be recognized by the traditional ruler, saying that many are called but few are chosen.
Uche said: “I am happy for the award given to me by Eze Nwokedi because it is not everyone that came for the iriji that was recognised that way. He must have something he likes in me and I promise not to disappoint.
“I am not praising myself but I am always fair to all. I love in investing in human beings. I grab every opportunity to help with two hands. And it is my prayer that our people should continue to love one another. God will restore peace to our land.”
Other awardees include Hon. Lasisi Akinsanta, executive chairman, Ikotun – Igando LCDA; Chief Sam Bassey, Chief Igbafe Afegbai, Chief Woke Oyedele, Chief Ifeanyi Oguejiofor, Chief Chinedu Anaekwe (Osolo of Osolo), Mr Friday Ajah and Mrs Ihuaku Chukwueke Anumia.
