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Soludo rejects Ofala Festival as dispute with Obi of Onitsha worsens

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The dispute between Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Soludo, and Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Achebe, have taken a worse turn.

The governor who has been a regular attendee of the annual Onitsha Ofala Festival was notably absent from the 2024 edition held on Friday.

Soludo’s commitment to collaborating with the Obi of Onitsha to enhance the festival, expressed during his 2023 attendance, was subsequently compromised following his suspension of Igwe Ezeani of Neni, who conferred title on the Late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, who was planning to contest with Soludo before he died in September

The suspension of Igwe Ezeani, along with two others by the Anambra government, drew sharp criticism from Obi of Onitsha, who chairs the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council (ASTRC).

In an open letter, the monarch alleged that Soludo’s administration displays a lack of respect for the state’s traditional institutions.

He pointed out that while other states in Nigeria are fortifying their traditional institutions, Anambra’s is being progressively undermined.

Achebe stated his surprise and dismay upon discovering  that the ASTRC, which he heads, had been dissolved and declared illegal.

He expressed disappointment, noting, “this development is particularly untimely, given the ongoing efforts by other states, the Federal Government, and the National Assembly to revitalize the traditional institution’s relevance nationwide.”

He further lamented over the ASTRC’s inability to convene and address matters of state interest, which has resulted in the traditional institution lacking the requisite mandate to participate in national and sub-national affairs.

The monarch disclosed that on January 12, 2024, he was obliged to issue a public letter to the Honourable Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Community Affairs of Anambra State.

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He said, “the letter was a response to the suspension of the traditional ruler of Neni and the demand for apologies from two other traditional rulers, which was communicated via social media by the Ministry.

“The social media fallout from the correspondences prompted the government to discontinue the ASTRC’s monthly meetings which supposed to start in March 2024, claiming the council’s illegality, which contrasts with its previously recognized status under state supervision.”

According to the Daily Trust, the governor is yet to react to the latest issue.

Ofala Festival in Onitsha

The Ofala Festival in Anambra State, is a significant annual celebration that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Igbo people.

It is a time-honored tradition that dates back to the 16th century when the Onitsha people migrated from Benin to the eastern banks of the River Niger.

What is the meaning of Ofala?

The term “Ofala” is derived from two Igbo words: “ọfọ” (authority) and “ala” (land).

The festival is all about honoring the monarch’s authority and connection to the land.

When is it celebrated?

The Festival typically takes place in October, lasting for two days. It’s a customary obligation that must be performed every couple of years without failure.

What happens during the festival?

The celebration begins with a traditional twenty-one gun salute, followed by all-night drumming, dancing, and cultural activities.

The Obi (king) emerges from seclusion, dressed in royal regalia, to bless his subjects and say prayers for the community.

The festival also features the red-capped chiefs paying homage to the Obi, and sometimes, individuals are honored with chieftaincy titles.

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Significance

The festival marks the end of the Obi’s period of retreat, known as “Inye Ukwu na Nlo,” where he undergoes spiritual purification for the good of the community.

It is an occasion for the monarch to fulfill certain obligations and showcase his culture.

Unique aspects of Onitsha Ofala

Onitsha Ofala is distinct from other Ofala festivals in Igbo land, as it’s believed to be the first Ofala in the Igbo tribe.

The festival varies from community to community, but in Onitsha, it is a grand celebration that showcases the city’s rich heritage.

 

 

 

 


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