Chief Charles Okonkwo Celebrates Iwaji Festival, Advocates Unity and Development in Ibusa

By: Newsbreeze

The ancient kingdom of Ibusa in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State came alive with pomp, colour and cultural splendour as High Chief Charles Ositsadinma Okonkwo, the Odogwu of Ibusa, celebrated his maiden Iwaji (New Yam) Festival since ascending the revered traditional title.

The festival, held at the Odogwu Palace in Umueze Quarters, attracted a large gathering of indigenes, guests and dignitaries from within and outside Delta State who converged to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the Ibusa people and mark the beginning of a new harvest season.

The atmosphere was electrifying as the melodious tunes of the traditional Akpele flute echoed across the venue, accompanied by colourful cultural displays, traditional dances and joyous celebrations that reflected the pride and identity of the community.

Addressing guests during the event, Chief Okonkwo described the New Yam Festival as a sacred thanksgiving celebration that honours hard work, agricultural productivity and the enduring cultural values of the Ibusa people. He noted that the festival serves as an expression of gratitude to God for a successful farming season and abundant harvest.

The Odogwu also used the occasion to dispel misconceptions about the festival, stressing that the Iwaji celebration is purely cultural and communal and has no connection with fetish practices.
According to him, preserving cultural traditions is vital to maintaining the identity, history and values of any people.

A people without the knowledge of their history, origin and culture are like a tree without roots, he said, urging younger generations to embrace and preserve the customs and traditions handed down by their forefathers.

Chief Okonkwo further called on Ibusa sons and daughters, particularly those living in the diaspora, to contribute meaningfully towards the growth and development of their ancestral home. He emphasized that sustainable community development can only be achieved through collective responsibility, unity and selfless service.

The respected traditional title holder also appealed to political leaders and stakeholders to place the overall interest of Ibusa above partisan considerations, noting that while political offices are temporary, the ties of brotherhood and community remain enduring.

He commended the Obi of Ibusa, His Royal Majesty, Obi Prof. Louis Chelunor Nwaoboshi, for his leadership, wisdom and commitment to promoting peace, harmony and development within the kingdom.

Among the dignitaries who attended the event were former presidential candidate and social crusader, Prof. Chris Nwokobia Jnr.; Commander Ikemefuna Donald (Rtd.); the Delta State Commissioner for Science and Technology, Hon. Daniel Odinigwe Odigie; the Onowu of Ibusa, Chief Kizito Ijeh; and renowned businessman and community leader, Chief Zikky Nwabuwa.

Also present were members of the media community led by veteran journalist, Dr. Dan Awana, alongside several community leaders, cultural enthusiasts and distinguished guests.

The celebration climaxed with thrilling cultural performances, traditional dances and a lavish reception featuring local delicacies, providing an opportunity for guests to interact, reconnect and strengthen bonds of friendship and brotherhood.

Many attendees described the event as one of the most colourful and impactful editions of the Iwaji Festival in recent years, applauding Chief Okonkwo for using the occasion to promote cultural preservation, peace, unity and sustainable development in Ibusa.