The grand finale of the month-long Egwu Imoka cultural festival of Awka community has been held with lots of masquerade displays and fun fare.

 

Cultural proponents turned out in their numbers to witness the festival.

The ‘Olulu Imoka’ shrine located within the Nkwo Amaenyi market, hosted masquerades, indigenes, groups and personalities from the thirty-three villages that make up Awka community and beyond, who gathered to pay homage to Imoka Deity and enjoy the festivities of 2024 celebration.

Speaking during the event, an Ozo Awka title holder, Chief Jeff Nweke noted that the Imoka celebration is the Awka identity and brings happiness to the people of Awka, reminding them of the brotherhood they share, noting that this year’s celebration is peaceful, urging Awka people never to loose faith in proudly celebrating their culture.

 

Another Ozo Awka title holder, Chief Nwokoye Nwosu noted that there is harmony and tranquility in this year’s celebration with people enjoying the Awka’s age long culture, pointing that the celebration has added flavor overtime for people to enjoy it better.

The Chairman of Ezinano Youths of Awka, Chief Nwosu, explained that Awka traditionalists came together to perform some necessary rites and ensure that the age long culture of Awka people is celebrated seamlessly.

 

Chief Nwosu also noted that business owners made brisky sales with the turnout of people, advising youths against destruction but rather to promote peace and help each other progress.

A Norwegian based entertainer, Chief Kenneth Odimegwu, who arrived with Ifite Awka group with their famous ‘Igba Abia’ drum, Chief Chinedu Dibor from Umuogbu village Awka who came along with his United States based sons including Mr. Nzediuba Dibor and harped on the need to keep the culture and traditions of Awka alive, expressing happiness for the day.

 

Some Ozo Awka title holders who graced the event danced the Egwu Ufve within the ‘Olulu Imoka’ while some played the traditional ‘Opu Eke’ drum and trumpet.

All along Zik’s avenue, many individuals and groups were seen making merry and entertained by masquerades, life band and ogene music performances.