The people of Azueke Autonomous community,Ndume Ibeku in Umuahia North local government area of Abia celebrates their annual Iri Ji festival.The two days festival which occurred between friday and ended on saturday 28th September drew people from all walks of life who came to witness the unique and rich culture of the Azueke people.
The five(5) villages comprising of Umuhute,Ofeke,Umuohu,Umuaroko and Ogbago which makes up the Azueke community trooped out in numbers in their respective villages in joyous and electrifying mood the singing and dancing to thank God for keeping them alive to witness this year’s Iri Ji celebration and for blessing them with bountiful harvest.
New Yam Festival an age-long tradition which depicts the prominence of yam in the social-cultural life of the Igbo people plays a significant role in unifying and promoting peace amongst the people which is a major catalyst for development.
The traditional ruler of Azueke Autonomous community Ibeku HRH Eze Okechukwu E.Onwubuariri in a speech at his palace thanked God for his numerous blessings,provisions and bountiful yield.
He noted that Iri Ji celebration has always been a tool used to promote peace,love and harmony among the people and at the same time adviced the youths to conduct themselves in a decent manner without injuring or hurting anyone.
Highlights of the festival which took place across the five(5) villages includes display of masquerades(Igba ekpe) ,beating of drums, and other local musical instruments to the amazement of all and sundry who came to feed their eyes on the amazing display of culture by the people.
