By Our Reporter

The traditional ruler of Ekwulobia, His Royal Majesty, Igwe (Engr.) Emmanuel Chukwukadibia Onyeneke, has suspended the community’s New Yam Festival, earlier scheduled for September 4, following the abduction of one of its prominent sons, Chief Sir Joseph Ezeokafor, Chief Executive Officer of Jezco Oil.

The monarch said the community could not proceed with festivities while Chief Ezeokafor remains in the custody of his abductors.

According to Igwe Onyeneke, the safety and freedom of their son must take precedence over celebration.

“Ekwulobia cannot celebrate while our son remains in the custody of the kidnappers,” the monarch said.

The decision has put the planned festival on hold as residents, traditional leaders and well-wishers await the safe return of the businessman.

Chief Sir Joseph Ezeokafor is a prominent businessman and an important son of Ekwulobia. His reported abduction has generated concern within the community, with prayers being offered for his safety and eventual release.

The suspension in Ekwulobia comes against the backdrop of a fresh directive by the Anambra State Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs prohibiting individuals and groups from organising parallel New Yam Festival celebrations in communities across the state.

In a letter dated July 31, 2026, with reference number MLGC/AD/507/204, the ministry addressed the directive to all Presidents-General of Town Unions and all Traditional Rulers in Anambra State.

The letter is titled:

“RE: PARALLEL CELEBRATION OF NEW YAM FESTIVAL IN COMMUNITIES IN ANAMBRA STATE.”

The document, signed by the Commissioner, Vin-Ifeanyi Ezeaka, Esq., states that the state government’s attention had been drawn to what it described as unlawful activities by some individuals and groups who allegedly organise parallel New Yam Festival, or Iwa Ji, celebrations in communities.

The ministry said such activities were “in total contravention of the customs and tradition” of the people.

The government further observed that some individuals and groups had begun holding New Yam festivals before, or on the same date as, the traditional rulers, which it said amounted to an unlawful usurpation of the traditional rights of traditional rulers and could create room for a breakdown of law and order in affected communities.

The ministry recalled that the Anambra State Government had previously issued a directive on the matter to all Presidents-General and traditional rulers through a letter dated September 11, 2019, referenced OSPA/LG/CM/26/VI/281.

No festival before or on the same date as traditional ruler

Reiterating the state government’s position, the ministry directed, “effective immediately,” that no individual or group should organise a New Yam Festival, Iwa Ji, Iri Ji or by whatever name it is called, before the traditional ruler or on the same date as the traditional ruler in their respective communities.

The directive effectively places the scheduling and traditional observance of community New Yam celebrations within the authority of the recognised traditional institution, while warning against competing or parallel celebrations.

The government’s position adds a significant dimension to this year’s New Yam season, particularly as communities across Anambra prepare for their annual cultural festivities.

Ekwulobia decision comes amid security concerns

In Ekwulobia, however, the suspension of the September 4 festival is also rooted in the community’s response to the reported abduction of Chief Ezeokafor.

Rather than proceed with a major cultural celebration while a prominent member of the community remains in captivity, the traditional institution has chosen to suspend the event.

The development underscores the role of traditional institutions not only in preserving cultural practices but also in responding to major challenges affecting their communities.

The New Yam Festival, traditionally known as Iwa Ji or Iri Ji, is an important Igbo cultural institution associated with thanksgiving, harvest, communal unity and the preservation of indigenous customs.

With the latest directive from the Anambra State Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs, communities are expected to ensure that their celebrations conform to the established authority of their traditional rulers and do not involve parallel or competing ceremonies.

For Ekwulobia, the priority remains the safe return of Chief Sir Joseph Ezeokafor.

The community and well-wishers are urged to continue praying for his safety, divine protection and immediate release, while his family and community await his return.

For Ekwulobia, the message is clear: celebration can wait, but the safe return of their son comes first.