2025 Iriji Umuna: A Colourful Celebration Of Culture, Legacy, Gratitude And Unity 

As being the custom, the annual event began with a heartfelt thanksgiving mass at St. Joseph Catholic Church – Orlu, ushering in open heavens of blessings and reverent atmosphere before the festival properly kick-started by 1:pm.

What followed was a vivid tapestry of Igbo heritage brought to life: Egwu mgba (wrestling dances) showcasing strength and tradition, spirited mmanwu masquerade performances invoking ancestral spirits in dramatic costumes, and the majestic Egwu ukwu (royal dances) symbolizing reverence and royal majesty—all choreographed in harmonious celebration of communal identity.

In his address, the Imo State Governor, His Excellency Sen. Hope Uzodimma, ably represented by His Royal Majesty, Eze (Dr.) Cletus Illumoanya CON, described the occasion as “a living testament to the potency of tradition in cementing unity and elevating the human spirit, especially as we advance in modern governance”.

With his charm, intimidating height, and good oratory, while exuding royalty in his  highly expensive traditional regalia —Eze Douglas Okwara alongside his amazon of wife — Ugoeze Grace Okwara Ph.D— reflected: “Iri Ji Ohuru is our covenant with the land and our ancestors; a resurgence of identity that nourishes our past as it inspires our future”.

In his place as a royal father he blessed the land, the people gathered and his kingdom to live to eat Ji Ohuru (new yam) of next year.

This year’s edition was truly extraordinary as sons and daughters of Umuna, from across Nigeria and in the diaspora, trooped back to their ancestral roots with joy and reverence, renewing their unbreakable bond with the land of their forefathers. The kingdom came alive as the royal arena welcomed distinguished traditional rulers, eminent political leaders, captains of industry, cultural icons, and well-wishers from far and near — all united in the celebration of Umuna’s enduring legacy.”

The epoch-making cultural event, which was covered by a Nigerian serial media entrepreneur and publisher of 4th Eatate Reporters— had in attendance the Auxiliary Bishop of Orlu Diocese, Bishop Thomas Obiatuegwu, captains of industry, Orlu diasporas, political gladiators—Senator Osita Izunaso (Imo West) and Rt. Hon. CaniceMoore Nwachukwu (Orlu Federal), who came with their individual gifts to present to HRM Eze (Dr.) Douglas Okwara as over 12 cows were received. A highly dignified gesture which further elevated the festival’s significance, asserting the seamless fusion of indigenous culture and contemporary leadership.

Among the prominent dignitaries who graced the festival were:

1. HRM Eze (Dr.) C. I. Ilomuanya, Obi of Obinugwu (Co-Chairman, Southern Council of Traditional Rulers).

2. HRM Eze Oliver Ohanwe, Obi Gburugburu of Isiama Mbano LGA.

3. HRM Eze G. Ejiogu, Kara of Umunakara.

4. Hon. Chief Cosmos Maduba, Odenigbo I of Umuna (Imo State Commissioner of Agriculture).

5. Nze Geoffrey Orisakwe Duru, Okenwanwa of Umuna.

6. HRM Eze Chris Agbugha, Orjiwuru Obodo of Anara (Chairman, Isiala Mbano Council of Traditional Rulers).

7. HRH Eze Eunan Eke.

8. HRH Eze C. A. Oforegbu, Okwaraorji III of Amucha Ancient Kingdom.

9. HRH Eze Geoffrey Okoro, Traditional Ruler of Upe Autonomous Community.

10. HRM Eze Emmanuel Assor, Odozi Obodo I of Awara, Ohaji-Egbema.

11. HRH Eze Joe Ike, Obi of Ugiri (Ekeshi Mgbaja IV), Umuneke-Ugiri, Isiala Mbano.

12. HRH Eze B. C. Onuoha, JP, Ohanyere II of Okrikama/Umugwa Autonomous Community.

13. HRH Eze Jude Chidi Nwaogu, Chidiebube I of Egbelu Obube, Owerri North LGA (Chairman, Owerri North Council of Traditional Rulers).

14. HRH Eze V. O. Ahamefule, Durugwuegbu IV of Duruoha Oboro Amurie Kingdom, Uzunakpigwe, Isu LGA.

15. High Chief Tony Anuforo, President, G-36 Social Club and members.

16. HRH Eze Emmanuel U. N. Assor, Odozi Obodo of Assa Kingdom, Ohaji (Chairman, Ohaji/Egbema Council of Traditional Rulers; National Secretary, TROMPCON).

17. HRM Eze (Dr.) Vitus Uchenna Kasa (Okwadike), Assa II of Assa Ngugo, Ikeduru LGA.

18. A host of traditional masquerades and cultural troupes, which thrilled the arena with breathtaking displays.

The royal carnival of colours, sounds, and sacred rites was more than a feast for the eyes — it was a resounding proclamation of Umuna’s status as a beacon of unity, peace, cultural pride, and progress in Imo State and beyond.

Indeed, 2025 Iriji Umuna was not just a festival; it was a glorious symphony of heritage and royalty, a timeless celebration of thanksgiving, and a majestic reaffirmation of communal strength.