The inaugural Ugu-Uzo Emekuku Cultural Carnival 2025, held on November 15, 2025 at Emekuku High School in Owerri North LGA, witnessed colour, cultural pride, and celebration as the Traditional Ruler of Emekuku Ancient Kingdom, HRM Eze Obi Ejeshi (Ezeukwu IV) rewarded all participating age groups for their exceptional performances with the sum of one hundred thousand naira each.
The event, organized to rejuvenate and globally showcase Emekuku’s cultural heritage, was attended by dignitaries including the Imo State Commissioner for Tourism, Hospitality and Culture, Rt. Hon. Ernest Ibejiako, who was represented by the Director for Council of Arts and Culture Imo State, Eze-elect, Chief Jude Chijioke Eke.
In his address, the revered monarch—accompanied by his wife, Ugoeze Dr. Barr. Oby Amadiobi, Director-General of the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotions (NOTAP)—highlighted the significance of the Ugu-Uzo festival and its journey through modernization.
Eze Ejeshi recounted how the festival, which traditionally involved the Chief Priest - Onyeisiuguzo trekking across rivers to perform rituals at Nkwo-Emeke and Umuakuru, has evolved with infrastructural developments. Today, bridges and road networks allow the rituals to continue seamlessly, albeit with modern conveniences.
He noted that various innovations—such as conducting prayers in church, hosting the festival at communal grounds, and adding entertainment elements—have all been embraced over the years without objections from the community.
“What you are witnessing today is only a test run,” the monarch stated. “Next year’s event will be ‘Oha Karalama’—a time for the people to assess and express their views. We are not altering the traditional rites but enriching the festival to attract governmental recognition, especially in the areas of our songs and dance.”
He further announced that a cooking contest featuring Emekuku’s prized vegetable delicacy(Ofe-akwukwo) would be introduced next year.
Eze Ejeshi expressed deep gratitude to the Governor of Imo State, His Excellency Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, for his numerous appointments and developmental projects in Emekuku and the entire Owerri Zone. He equally commended the planning committee for successfully staging a historic cultural event.
The Chairman of the Planning Committee, Barr. A. Chiedu Mezu, emphasized that the purpose of the carnival was to sustain and transmit Ugu-Uzo traditions—songs, dances, attire, and culinary practices—to the next generation. He stressed that the enhancements introduced were not meant to distort ancestral rites but to add glamour and transform Ugu-Uzo into a global cultural attraction.
Barr. Mezu also applauded Governor Uzodimma for facilitating the appointment of Dr. Barr. Oby Amadiobi as Director-General of NOTAP and for the reconstruction of the Owerri–Umuahia road, which he said has boosted economic activities in the area
Speaking on behalf of the Commissioner, Eze-elect Jude Chijioke Eke praised HRM Eze Obi Ejeshi for spearheading efforts to elevate Emekuku cultural heritage. He described the festival’s creativity—particularly the blend of songs and dances—as inspiring.
The Director, also briefed the community on the upcoming National Festival for Arts and Culture (NAFEST) in Enugu, inviting Emekuku to participate and pledging support in promoting their rich artistry.
Age groups participated in the cultural music and dance competitions such as; Izunwanne age group Ezeogba which scored 1st position, Enyiakanwanne age group Ezedibia which scored 2nd position, Nnejiakolam age group Ezedibia which scored 3rd position. Others include Nduwueze Age group Ezedibia, Ositadimma age group Ezedibia, Iheukwumere age group Ezeogba etc. Others at the event include Emekuku Council of Elders (Nde Oha Emekuku), Nde Nze, Nde Chief and other Cabinet members.
Sponsors acknowledged during the festival include, High Chief Tony Ihenacho, Chief Anselem Emenyeonu, Mr Hyacinth Ukawuba, Mr Ben Obinna Osuji, Barr. Sylvester Amadiobi, Mr Kennedy Anaele, Mr Emmanuel Lumanze (Lumaco) and Ezeogba Village Council.
Report Compiled By Fredrick Njoku
Culture preserved, unity strengthened. Emekuku is showing the world how tradition meets modernity.
ReplyDeleteBig respect to HRM Eze Obi Ejeshi for rewarding the age groups. True leadership 👑
Ofe-akwukwo cooking contest next year? That one go sweet pass carnival itself .
ReplyDeleteThis is how heritage becomes global attraction. Songs, dances, and food all in one festival 💃🏽Shoutout to the sponsors and planning committee. Without them, this history wouldn’t be written 🙌