Emume Iriji Eze Anara Community: A Celebration Of Igbo Rich Culture, Sustained Legacy, Unity & Prosperity

The symbolic emume iriji ohuru (New Yam festival) — a celebration of bountiful harvest, unity, and tradition — unfolded in grandeur with a vibrant procession led by HRH Eze Agbugba, accompanied by his cabinet, Eze-in-Council, and Oha Ndi Eze of Anara, from the palace to Anara junction, the epicenter of the community that connects four roads leading to different parts of the state. The procession was marked by traditional rituals, prayers, and supplications to the gods of the land, seeking prosperity, security, peace, and unity for the Anara people.

A high point of the colourful event was the conferment of chieftaincy titles on deserving individuals, who have contributed significantly to the development and sustainability of the community. Notable recipients included; Dr. Success Prosper Ohayagha, Imo Commissioner for Primary Health— who was conferred with the chieftaincy title of Ochinanwata of Anara, and Evang. Onyelike Achiever Darlington, a real estate business mogul, who received the title of Akuabata 1 of Anara— a  title, which the Publisher of 4th Estate Reporters, learnt from the benefit of hindsight, was meticulously chosen and recommended for him by his leader and role model in the real estate business— High Chief Duru Mike Ejiogu (Onwu Anara Ancient Kingdom).

In their separate acceptance speeches, the title holders expressed gratitude to HRH Eze Agbugba, the traditional Prime Minister, High Chief Duru Mike Ejiogu (Akaepuchi Onwa of Isiala Mbano), and the entire Anara community for the honour bestowed upon them. They pledged to contribute to the growth and development of the community, attracting projects that would improve lives and empower the people. Achiever Darlington specifically acknowledged the mentorship role of High Chief Ejiogu, crediting him with his success in the Imo real estate sector.

A spectacular manifestation of cultural splendor was the adornment of majestic seats, bespoke for the revered Traditional Ruler and the esteemed Traditional Prime Minister of Anara Ancient Kingdom. These exotic seats, meticulously designed to reflect the dignity and stature of their exalted positions, served as a testament to the community’s profound respect and veneration for their leaders.

The deliberate nature of these seats underscored the significance of their roles, symbolizing the weight of authority, the gravity of responsibility, and the depth of honour bestowed upon them. As they occupy these distinguished seats, they are reminded of their paramount duty to superintend over the affairs of their people with wisdom, integrity and justice.

A festival, which transcended the bounds of a mere cultural showcase — a sacred covenant of gratitude, sustained legacy in leadership, and divine season, featured a spectacular cultural dance by Anara women led by Osodieme— Lolo Ijeoma Ejiogu, gift presentations, and speeches. The Chairman of the occasion, Chief Mike Ahuama, noted that Anara is blessed with illustrious sons and daughters, who have made significant contributions in various fields. He prayed that the significance of the festival would continue to reflect positively on the lives of the people.

The official traditional cutting of the yam and eating it publicly by the respected traditional ruler, HRH Eze Agbugba and the traditional Prime Minister — High Chief Duru Mike Ejiogu, a co-host of the 2025 Iriji Anara, followed by other dignitaries, was a climax of the event.

The Chairman of the Planning Committee, Chief Apostle Kingsley Ndee Oguine, ushered in the Traditional Ruler and Traditional Prime Minister, who officiated the ceremonial cutting of the yam, offering heartfelt prayers for peace, security, progress, and development in Anara.

In his address, HRH Eze Agbugba urged the indigenes to foster unity, lend their support, and contribute to the growth and stability of the community. He ushered in the new harvest season by eating the yam, praying for bountiful harvests for all Anara people, both at home and in the diaspora.

High Chief Mike Ejiogu, during an interview session with the press, emphasized that the New Yam festival signifies oneness, love, and peace, providing an opportunity for ndi Anara to showcase their rich cultural heritage. He advised Anara people to remain united, pursue peace and progress, and maintain love and good relationships.

The event was attended by notable dignitaries; including the Local Government Chairman of Isiala Mbano LGA, Hon. Evang. Chika Okoroike, Chief Sylvester Mmadu, HRM Eze Dr. E.F. N. I. Akano (JP, KSJI, OFR), (Ezerioha, Eze Durukparakatam, and Duruemezuo of Isu Ancient Kingdom, Nwangele LGA, Imo State), HRH  Eze Nnadi of Umaruo 11, among other personalities.