By Chinenye Chukwuma
The Ohaji community in Imo State came alive on Saturday as they gathered at the Ohaji District headquarters, Umuokanne, to celebrate the Iri Ji Ohaji 2025 festival. The event, which brought together sons and daughters of Ohaji, was a grand affair that showcased the community's rich cultural heritage and traditions.
In his opening remarks, the chairman of the occasion, Dr. Greg Obi, highlighted the significance of Iri Ji, saying that it was a time for the community to come together and celebrate their harvest. He thanked the organizers of the program for bringing the community together and urged them to reflect on their blessings and unify themselves.
Rt. Hon Eugene Dibiagwu, representing Ohaji/Egbema, Oguta, and Oru West federal constituency, described the people of Ohaji as peace-loving, accommodating, and enterprising. He said the significance of the ceremony drew from the glory of their forebears, who were warriors and farmers beyond their immediate environment.
HRM Eze Emmanuel Assor (Odozi Obowo 11 of Assa kingdom) cut the new yam and prayed for peace, unity, and oneness among the people of Ohaji. He emphasized the importance of Iri Ji in bringing the community together and promoting their cultural heritage.
HRH Eze Dr M. C Nwokeoma (Okaa-Omee 4th of Umuokanne Ancient kingdom) thanked God for a successful 2025 Iri Ji Ohaji and outlined the significance of the festival. He wished all sons and daughters of Ohaji well and urged them to continue to work together to promote the community's development.
Barr. Golden Nwosu, chairman of the 2025 Iri Ji Ohaji central planning committee, said the festival was a celebration of the harvest of yam and a reaffirmation of the community's identity, unity, and resilience. He described Ohaji Nation as the cradle and custodian of yam cultivation and production, saying that every Iri Ji Ohaji was a thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest and a reaffirmation of their cultural pride and unity.
High Chief Fidelis Enyia (Dikeoha), president general of Ogbako Ohaji people's forum, said the festival was a timeless tradition that bound the community to their roots and ignited their vision for a united and prosperous future. He urged the people to celebrate the festival with gratitude and pride, saying it was a sacred moment of renewal and togetherness.
Dr Chima Amadi (Gburugburu), who was represented at the occasion, extended his heartfelt goodwill to the people of Ohaji, saying he was proud of their shared values of excellence, integrity, and progress. He wished them a greater harvest season and urged them to continue to work together to promote the community's development.
The event was attended by prominent sons and daughters of Ohaji, including Hon Dr. Uzoma Francis Osuoha, member representing Ohaji/Egbema state constituency, and Ambassador Nwaneri Goodluck, Director City Boy Movement, among others.
The Iri Ji Ohaji 2025 festival was a grand success, and it is expected to promote unity and development in the Ohaji community. The community is proud of their cultural heritage, and they are committed to preserving it for future generations.