Ebonyi Governor Joins Thousands of Izzi People to Celebrate Ojiji New Yam Festival
Massive Turnout as Izzi People Reenact Ojiji New Yam Festival in Ebonyi
A massive crowd of people from within and outside Ebonyi State has turned out at Amagu, the ancestral home of the Izzi people, to reenact the annual Ojiji Izzi New Yam Festival, in a colourful celebration of the clan’s culture, unity and agricultural heritage.
The festival, which brought together traditional leaders, government officials, politicians and members of the Izzi community, featured cultural displays and celebrations highlighting the rich heritage of one of Ebonyi State’s prominent clans.
Speaking at the grand finale, Ebonyi State Governor, Chief Francis Nwifuru, urged the people of Izzi to ignore what he described as propaganda against his administration and remain focused on the development of the state.
Governor Nwifuru said his administration was not distracted by the activities of opposition political parties, stressing that the government remained committed to human capital development and the provision of infrastructure for Ebonyi citizens.
He appealed to the people of Izzi to avoid disunity, rancour and internal crisis, warning that divisions within the clan could undermine its progress and development.
The governor also dismissed a recent protest against his administration in Abuja, alleging that some of those involved were hired from different parts of the country.
Nwifuru encouraged the people of Ebonyi to use cultural festivals such as Ojiji to showcase the state’s rich cultural heritage, attract visitors and promote a positive image of the state.
The event attracted prominent personalities from within and outside Ebonyi State, including the Deputy Governor, Princess Patricia Obila, and the Senator representing Ebonyi South Senatorial District at the National Assembly, Senator Okorie Ani.
The Ojiji festival remains an important annual cultural gathering through which the Izzi people celebrate their heritage, communal bonds and the harvest season.
