Anambra outlaws parallel celebration of new yam festival

The Anambra State Government has prohibited the simultaneous celebration of the New Yam festival in various communities within the state. This directive was issued by the Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs through a statement signed by Chief Vin Ezeaka, the Commissioner for the Ministry. The announcement was shared with journalists in Awka on Tuesday.

Ezeaka highlighted instances of unlawful activities by certain individuals and groups who engage in parallel celebrations of the New Yam festival in some Anambra communities. He emphasized that this practice directly contradicts the customs and traditions of the local populace. Previously, the government had communicated this directive to all communities through a letter addressed to Presidents-General and traditional rulers.

Furthermore, the Anambra Police Commissioner ordered a police investigation following the killings of a comedian and another individual during the New Yam festival celebrations. Otti, a local monarch, commended the ruler for his efforts in promoting agriculture. The government reiterates its stance on this issue and has now issued an immediate order prohibiting any individual or group from holding the New Yam Festival, Iwa Ji, or Iri Ji before or on the same date as the traditional rulers.