Anambra State Governor, Charles Soludo
Anambra State Governor, Charles Chukwuma Soludo, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to preserving and promoting Igbo culture, morals, and traditional values as vital instruments of unity and identity.
Soludo gave the assurance on Saturday during the Obosi New Yam Festival, popularly known as Obiora Obosi, where he was conferred with the prestigious chieftaincy title of “Oluatuegwu of Obosi”, meaning one who does not fear work.
The governor praised the people of Obosi Kingdom and other communities across Igbo land for their dedication to sustaining the customs and traditions that define their heritage.
> “This festival is not just a celebration of harvest; it’s a celebration of who we are as a people. It tells our story, preserves our values, and strengthens our unity,” Soludo said.
He urged residents of the community to come out in large numbers on November 8 to vote in support of his administration’s development agenda.
Earlier, the Traditional Ruler of Obosi, Igwe Chidubem Iweka, who also serves as the Chairman of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council, explained that the Obiora Obosi/Iwaji Festival symbolizes gratitude for the yam harvest and the promotion of peace within the community.
> “Our ancestors valued peace so much that they imposed heavy fines on anyone who engages in a fight during Obiora week,” the monarch stated.
Igwe Iweka described Soludo’s title as a recognition of his leadership and his efforts in advancing the state’s development and cultural preservation.
> “This is my 14th Obiora/Iwaji celebration and my first as chairman of the State Traditional Rulers Council. The governor has performed excellently in security, youth empowerment through the One Youth, Two Skills initiative, education, and agriculture,” he said.
He also lauded Soludo’s rural road projects and distribution of improved seedlings and farm inputs to farmers across the state.
The festival, attended by dignitaries including Mr. Peter Obi, former governor of Anambra State and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, showcased the unity and vibrancy of Igbo tradition.
In her remarks, Mrs. Uju Ezeagbo, the Women Leader of Obosi, emphasized the important role of women in homebuilding, farming, and politics.
> “As mothers and homemakers, we must support our king and contribute to community development while ensuring our voices are heard in politics,” she said.
Another community leader, Chief Linus Mgbakogu, urged younger generations to cherish traditional values and resist the erosion of culture by modern lifestyles.
Similarly, Chief Ken Obi, Chairman of the Obiora Obosi 2025 Committee, called on the people to use the festival as an opportunity for communal development and thanksgiving.
> “Yam is more than just food—it symbolizes hard work, resilience, and the bond that holds us together as a people,” Obi said, encouraging residents to share their harvests in the spirit of generosity and friendship.
The event was marked by colorful cultural displays, traditional music, and a renewed call to preserve the rich cultural legacy of the Igbo people.
NAN
