Anambra State Bans Parallel New Yam Festival Celebrations

The Anambra State Government has officially banned the parallel celebration of the New Yam festival across communities in the state. This directive was communicated through a statement from Chief Vin Ezeaka, the Commissioner for Local Government and Community Affairs, on Tuesday in Awka.

The government has observed unlawful activities by certain individuals and groups who have been organizing their own New Yam festivals either before or on the same date as those sanctioned by traditional rulers. This practice is deemed a violation of local customs and traditions, undermining the authority of royal fathers and potentially leading to disturbances in the affected communities.

The government previously issued a letter to all Presidents-General and traditional rulers regarding this issue. Effective immediately, no individual or group is permitted to hold a New Yam Festival, known as Iwa Ji or Iri Ji, before or concurrently with the celebrations led by traditional rulers.