Yam, one of the staple foods in Nigeria, due to its importance and
nutritional value is regarded as the king of all crops, hence the
special attention accorded to it before eating.

Correspondent, Emengini Osabede was at Ojoto, Idemili South Local
Government Area where the traditional ruler, Igwe Gerald Mbamalu
celebrated the 2020 New Yam Festival amidst strict adherence to
COVID-19 protocols.

The festival attracted leaders of the eight villages of the community
as well as indigenes of the community within and outside the
community.

Igwe Gerald Mbamalu, who said the celebration was aimed at
appreciating the Almighty God for bumper harvest, also prayed God to
bless and preserve his community and the State Governor, Chief Willie
Obiano for his efforts towards protecting the state from COVID-19
pandemic.

In their separate speeches, the Traditional Prime Minister of the
community, Chief Pat Onwuarai, the President General, Ojoto Akasasato,
Chief Donatus Anozie and the Palace Secretary, Chief Sir Tony
Esimoneze expressed joy over the celebration noting that the festival
avails every indigene the opportunity to start eating new yam.

In her goodwill message, the Unit Commander, Federal Road Safety corps
Nnewi, Mrs. Christy Obasi commended Igwe Mbamalu and Ojoto indigenes
for the celebration and urged them to always abide by COVID-19
protocols to contain the spread, drive safely while on wheel and obey
traffic rules and regulations.

For a one time Managing Director of ABS, Prince Amobi Adirika, and
some members of the Igwe’s cabinet, who were filled with gratitude to
God for a bountiful harvest, extolled Igwe Mbamalu for some
innovations and prayed for God’s blessings in Ojoto.
Highpoints were cutting and eating of the new yam, traditional dance
and presentation to the Igwe by the people.

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