Eze Iweka III Unveils Roadmap for Obosi’s Triple Cultural Festivals, Revives Historic ‘Ite Umatu’ Celebration

By Uzo Ugwunze

The ancient kingdom of Obosi is set for a vibrant cultural renaissance as the Chairman of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council (ASTRC), Igwe Chidubem Iweka (Eze Iweka III), has officially unveiled activities leading to three major cultural festivals, including the revival of the long-dormant Ite Umatu Eze Obosi festival.

The royal proclamation, made on July 17, 2026, at the monarch’s palace in Obosi, signaled the commencement of preparations for Ite Umatu Eze Obosi 2026, Obiora Obosi 2026, and Ito-Ogbo Obosi 2027, alongside the inauguration of a 15-member organizing committee.

Addressing traditional chiefs, community leaders and guests, Eze Iweka III described the festivals as vital pillars for preserving the rich cultural identity of Obosi and strengthening unity among its people.

“We have three important cultural festivals ahead of us, each reflecting the values, history and identity of the Obosi people. These celebrations are not merely events; they are a legacy we must preserve for future generations,” the monarch declared.

He announced that Obiora Obosi 2026, the community’s annual New Yam Festival celebrating peace, unity and thanksgiving, will take place on October 24, 2026.

The royal father also revealed that Ite Umatu Eze Obosi, a historic festival that has not been celebrated for many years, will make a grand return on August 30, 2026.

“This year’s Ite Umatu will be the first since my ascension to the throne as Eze Iweka III. It is a significant milestone in our commitment to reviving and sustaining the customs and traditions that define us as a people,” he said.

The monarch further announced that the prestigious Ito-Ogbo Obosi Festival, celebrated every three years to honour indigenes who attain the age of 80, is scheduled for March 27, 2027.

According to him, Obosi is blessed with 15 cultural festivals, all designed to preserve the community’s heritage while promoting peace, unity and cultural pride.

Organising Committee

The 15-member committee inaugurated to coordinate Obiora Obosi 2026 and Ito-Ogbo Obosi 2027 is chaired by Nze Kenneth Ifeatu Obi, with Dr. Kene Igboebisi serving as Vice Chairman and Nze Igwebuike Shedrach Okenwa as General Secretary.

Other members include Nze Elvis Umegbolu (Coordinator, Media and Publicity), Mr. Jibike Ben (Assistant Coordinator, Media and Publicity), Hon. Mrs. Nche Egwu, Dr. Dubby Oguegbu, Lady Phina Onwuachu (Entertainment Coordinators), Onyeka Molokwu (Coordinator, Traditional Affairs), Mrs. Ebele Osakwe (Public Relations Officer), Mr. Uche Chuke, Ndubuisi Nwokeabia, and Chief Emeka Asimonye (Dikedioramma).

The committee will be advised by Chief Osita Chidoka (Ike Obosi) and Chief Collins Anibogwu (Iyasele Obosi), while Chief Emeka Anyoku (Adazie Obosi) serves as Grand Patron. Eze Iweka III will oversee the activities as General Supervisor.

Providing insight into the revived Ite Umatu festival, General Secretary Nze Igwebuike Okenwa, alongside Chief Okey Mgbemena (Uzzi Obosi), explained that the celebration is traditionally dedicated to thanking God for abundant harvests of crops such as maize, cocoyam, cassava and other staple produce aside from yam.

“Ite Umatu is a unique thanksgiving festival that celebrates the harvest of other food crops that sustain our people. Its revival represents a renewed appreciation of our agricultural heritage and cultural roots,” they explained.

Security Partnership

The event also featured a courtesy visit by the newly posted Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 13, Ukpo, AIG Godwin Iguh Eze, who pledged stronger collaboration with traditional institutions to combat insecurity and promote peace across Anambra State.

The AIG assured the royal father and community leaders of the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to working closely with traditional rulers in addressing security challenges and maintaining law and order throughout the state.