The Traditional Ruler of Umudioka, Igwe Raphael Chukwurah has marked his maiden Ofala festival after he was presented with certificate of recognition by Anambra state government.
The Ofala festival which was held at the Civic Center, Umudioka in Dunukofia Council area, came after over twenty five years of not having such celebration in the community.
Traditional gunshots heralded the entrance of Igwe Chukwurah in company of colorfully dressed cabinet members, Otu Odu Eze Society of Umudioka, to the admiration of neighbouring communities, Ndi Umudioka, friends and well-wishers who attended the celebration.
Igwe Chukwurah expressed gratitude to God for preserving his life to witness the ofala after many years of denial and tussle and asked God to bless everyone.
The President General of Umudioka Progressive Union, Chief Chike Ozoji, while commending Governor Obiano for his good work in Umudioka which also led to the emergence of Igwe Chukwurah and applauded the traditional ruler’s peaceful disposition and approach to the affairs of the community.
According to one of the cabinet members who is also the Executive Chairman of Anambra state Physical Planning Board, Barrister Chike Maduekwe, the Ofala festival is coming years after people mocked the community for not having their own traditional ruler, noting that Igwe Chukwurah’s enthronement has engendered a sustainable peace process.
The Umudioka Palace Secretary Chief Peter Ikegbunam and Professor Moses Nkemjindu said that the Ofala celebration will further engender unity, peace and progress in the community.
During the event, some distinguished sons of Umudioka were honoured as mark of appreciation by Igwe Chukwurah, while many paid homage to him.
Igwe Chukwurah later danced round the arena, accompanied by his cabinet members and others.
Igbu Ichi ritual, one of the age-long traditions of Umudioka was performed at the arena.
Other traditional performances including the ufie music, masquerade displays, among others, pervaded the air to the joy and admiration of all and sundry.
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