/ Sep 29, 2026
/ Sep 29, 2026

Anambra bans parallel New Yam festivals, warns communities

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The Anambra State Government has banned individuals and groups from holding parallel New Yam festivals in communities across the state.

 

The directive was issued by the Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs in a statement signed by the Commissioner, Chief Vin Ezeaka, and made available to journalists in Awka on Tuesday.

According to the government, it had observed that some individuals and groups were organising New Yam festivals in their communities before, or on the same day as, celebrations led by traditional rulers.

The commissioner described the practice as contrary to the customs and traditions of the people, warning that it could lead to a breakdown of law and order.

The government said it had previously communicated the directive to communities through letters addressed to Presidents-General and traditional rulers.

Ezeaka said the state government had directed that no individual or group should hold a New Yam Festival, Iwa Ji or Iri Ji, regardless of the name used, before the traditional rulers or on the same date as their celebrations.

The directive takes effect immediately.

The government said the move was aimed at protecting the traditional rights of royal fathers and maintaining order within communities.

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