By Uzoh Myke
The Monarch of Onitsha, His Majesty (HM), Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, has assured Nigerians that there’s hope and resilience in the face of prevailing hardships in the country.
In his message to mark the kick-off for the celebration of the 2024 Ofala festival, the Obi of Onitsha, revealed that the ofala is an occasion to fulfill his obligations, including promoting peace, unity and development in Anambra state, especially Onitsha and Nigeria in general.
Speaking on the theme, “Courage, Perseverance, and Self-Reliance”, Igwe Achebe disclosed that, “The Ofala is primarily a celebration by the Monarch and his subjects for his annual emergence from seclusion, during which period the monarch has successfully negotiated the fortunes of the kingdom.
“Ofala is also a “re-enactment of the joy which the monarch shared with his subjects, at the discovery that yam is non-toxic and a valuable source of food”.
Also speaking, the Chairman, Ofala Steering Committee, Chief Okechukwu Mike Areh, explained that this years “Ofala Eze Onicha”, is a call to action, urging all to tap into our inner strength, our collective resilience, and our unwavering commitment to one another.
“The theme resonates deeply with our people’s resolve to overcome adversity. As we navigate the challenges of our time, we draw inspiration from our rich cultural heritage and the timeless values of our ancestors.
“We are proud to showcase our rich cultural heritage and promote unity among our people”, Chief Areh noted, adding that the Ofala festival holds from October 18th to October 19th, 2024.
While he expressed gratitude to those he referred to as esteemed sponsors of the festival, including Globacom ltd, and International Breweries Plc, for their continued support, the high chief invited friends and the well spirited Nigerians to join in celebrating the 2024 Ofala.
He regretted that the Ofala Youth Carnival organised by the Onitsha Youth Council (OYC), would not hold this year as a mark of respect for the murdered leader of the OYC, Barr Ernest A.B.K Offiah.
He however disclosed that other events would hold, including, the tenth edition of the international art exhibition (Oreze X), a Medical/health outreach and the 2024 edition of “Obi Nnaemeka Achebe Annual Lecture”, to be delivered by Prof. Pat Utomi on- “Achieving Peace and Reconciliation in Nigeria”: The Public Relations Approach.
Meanwhile, the Editorial Publicity Lead, Ofala Steering committee, Mr Tony Nezieanya has assured that adequate arrangements is in place, insisting that security operatives from all Organizations will be on ground to maintain peace and order in the venue for the two days celebration.
