Okonkwo Samuel
By Okonkwo Samuel
Daily News Reporters
info@dailynewsreporters.com
On Saturday, March 8, 2025, Enugwu-Agidi witnessed a grand celebration as His Royal Highness, Igwe Michael Chidozie Okekeuche, Okpalariam III of Enugwu-Agidi, welcomed the youths and people of the community to his palace for the 2025 Opoto Cultural Festival.
The occasion was graced by the President General of Enugwu-Agidi Town Union, Hon. Chukwuebuka Onuorah (Ijele Umunri), and the Chairman of Enugwu-Agidi Stakeholders Forum, Prince Emeka Egwuekwe (Apakata Onyi). Additionally, Engr. Chidi Anenye (Ichie Ezeejiagha) represented the Igwe’s cabinet.
The atmosphere at the palace of Okpalariam III was lively, as cultural displays, music, and traditional festivities filled the air. The Igwe, while addressing the press, provided insight into the significance of the Opoto Festival.
The Significance of Opoto Festival
Speaking on the festival, Igwe Michael Chidozie Okekeuche stated:
“From Thursday to Sunday, we celebrate the Opoto Festival. This festival marks the end of the year and the beginning of a new one for our people. We use this period to pray to God Almighty to bless our farmers, traders, and professionals so that whatever they do will yield great success. The festival serves as a time of thanksgiving and supplication for a fruitful year ahead.
The Opoto Festival is characterized by the presence of vibrant masquerades that parade the town, engaging in traditional displays. On Friday, the festival begins with a market day, where people buy what they need for the celebrations. On Saturday, the festivities continue, and by Sunday, the grand finale takes place with the appearance of the big masquerades, who perform for the people.
Yesterday, we welcomed visitors, especially the youths and young ladies, offering them food, drinks, and a special dish known as Avulu soup. We ensured that everyone was entertained and had a joyful experience. Although masquerade festivals sometimes come with minor incidents, this year’s event was peaceful and joyous. We are grateful to everyone who participated, including those who traveled from far and wide to celebrate with us. The main events took place at the market square, where the people continued the celebrations.
Today, the younger masquerades will give way for the bigger ones to showcase their performances. We are proud to see our culture preserved and celebrated.”
A Special Message to Ndi Enugwu-Agidi
When asked if he had a message for his people, Igwe Michael Chidozie Okekeuche encouraged unity and peaceful celebrations:
“I wish my people a joyful celebration; one that fosters brotherhood, peace, and love. Let us see this festival as an opportunity to strengthen our unity as one people. It should be a time of happiness and reflection on our shared heritage.”
The Igwe also expressed his appreciation to the Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, for ensuring security and peace during the festival:
“I sincerely thank Governor Soludo for making the environment safe. We have had no reports of insecurity, kidnapping, or harassment, and this has allowed our people to celebrate freely and joyfully.”
The Chief Press Secretary to HRH Igwe Michael Chidozie Okekeuche Speaks on the Historical Importance of Opoto
The Chief Press Secretary, Ichie Ndulue Ifeanyi, who is also a cabinet chief, shared additional insights on the cultural significance of the Opoto Festival:
“Yesterday was a historic day for Enugwu-Agidi. For the first time in many years, the entire town has come together in an atmosphere of love to celebrate this phenomenal cultural festival. It is remarkable that after eight years of Igwe Michael’s enthronement, he has further united the community through Opoto.”
“Opoto is the most prominent of all the cultural festivals in Enugwu-Agidi because it is the only one that the entire town celebrates together. In the past, there were divisions that prevented full participation, but Okpalariam 111 of Enugwu-Agidi, being a seasoned diplomat and a retired civil servant, has worked hard to bridge those gaps. He understands that a people without culture are lost, as rightly said by the late Prof. Norbert N Okoye. Our rich cultural heritage, rooted in our ancestral connection to the Nri Kingdom, must be preserved and promoted.”
“Opoto aligns with our lunar calendar, which marks the end of the old year and the beginning of a new one. It is a festival of thanksgiving for a successful harvest and a prayer for divine blessings in the coming planting season. As we celebrate, we ask God to send down the early rains for our farmers, as timely rainfall is crucial for agricultural success.”
The Evolution of Enugwu-Agidi Society
Ichie Ndulue Ifeanyi also reflected on the socio-economic transformation of the community:
“During the kolanut breaking ceremony, Igwe Okekeuche made a key observation: Enugwu-Agidi has evolved into a multi-dimensional society. While we remain a people deeply rooted in tradition, our community now thrives in various fields such as civil service, business, construction, mechanized agriculture, and trade. This diversification reflects our adaptability and growth as a people.”
He emphasized the responsibility of the community to uphold its culture while embracing modern advancements:
“As custodians of tradition, it is our duty to protect and promote our heritage in accordance with the Enugwu-Agidi Brotherly Union Constitution and the government’s guidelines on the role of traditional rulers. Igwe Michael is setting the pace in ensuring that our customs are preserved while adapting to the realities of contemporary society.”
Speaking further, Ichie Onyima added that the heavy presence of the youths and masquerades are clear indications of the people’s love, loyalty and solidarity to the traditional ruler who have over the years demonstrated leadership built on love, equity and fairness.
Looking Ahead
With the grand finale of the festival set for today, Enugwu-Agidi eagerly anticipates the final masquerade performances and the transition into a new year according to their traditional calendar.
The Opoto Festival remains a symbol of unity, cultural pride, and communal renewal, reinforcing the identity of Ndi Enugwu-Agidi and their ancestral heritage.
