New Yam festival, a cultural fabric that unites Ndigbo~Sen. Ani

By Wilson Ogbonnaya Okereke, Abakaliki y The Senator representing Ebonyi South Senatorial District, Senator Professor Anthony Okorie Ani, has described the New Yam Festival as a cultural fabric that unites the Igbo people across the world.

Speaking recently with newsmen, Senator Ani noted that the festival is not only a celebration of agricultural abundance but also a traditional New Year that signals the beginning of another farming cycle. He emphasized that yam, regarded as the "king of crops," deserves utmost respect in line with Igbo customs. According to him, the New Yam Festival provides a platform for younger generations to learn traditional dances, songs, and folklores, adding that yam remains central to marriages and other communal celebrations.

“This is a feast where our people showcase their pride as successful farmers while also expressing respect, appreciation, and support for one another, especially the elderly in every household,” Ani stated.

The lawmaker further explained that the festival is a season of gratitude, commending the people of Ezza Nation and Izhi Clan for observing peaceful Oke-Aku and Ojiji celebrations respectively. Senator Ani reaffirmed that the festival remains a strong unifying factor across Igbo land and called for collective efforts to preserve the rich cultural heritage. He also wished the component communities of his senatorial zone a blissful celebration.