Ofala Festival Highlights Unity in Ebonyi

Vanessa Obioha

The maiden Ofala Cultural Festival of His Royal Highness, kaji John zigwe, Ntumoke Ugota II of Anioma-Isu Kingdom, held recently, brought together traditional rulers, political leaders and cultural groups across Ebonyi State, as the Isuokoma clan marked the first Ofala celebration of its monarch.

The festival held under the chairmanship of Hon. Chief Donatus Njoku drew political leaders, captains of industry, business figures, as well as personalities from the arts, entertainment and sports sectors. According to him, the gathering focused on peace, unity and the shared identity of Anioma-Isu Kingdom and the wider Isuokoma clan.

The Executive Governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Nwifuru, and the Minister of Works, David Umahi, were represented at the festival. Traditional institutions were also present, led by HRM Eze Charles Mkpuma (Eze Burugbala III of Ezzama Kingdom), Chairman of the Ebonyi State Traditional Rulers’ Council, alongside other royal fathers from Ebonyi State and outside the state.

Chieftaincy titles were conferred on several individuals during the event. Those honoured included Chief Stephen Igwe (Ugo Anyi Ji Ejemba I of Anioma-Isu), Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters; Chief Ikechukwu Ogbofia (Ikuku-Udo I of Anioma-Isu), Executive Chairman of Onicha Local Government Area; and Chief Engr. Felix Ogbonna Igboke (Oku Nyelu Ife), Commissioner for Project Monitoring and Evaluation, among others.