EYIRIEYI OBOHIA 2025: A Cultural Renaissance Led by Chief Iyke Ezeh, Duke of Obohia
By Mary ugorji
Obohia witnessed an unforgettable cultural revival as the annual Eyirieyi Obohia Festival 2025 reached new heights under the visionary leadership of Chief Iyke Ezeh, Duke of Obohia and the Paronia Chairman of the Eyirieyi Organizing Committee. The event, which has long held cultural significance in the region, especially in the 70s, 80s, and 90s, was once again brought to life—this time on an even grander scale.
Recognizing the dwindling participation and community enthusiasm in the past decades, Chief Iyke and stakeholders across the Nigerian diaspora and local communities united to reclaim the essence of Eyirieyi from traditional authorities. Their collective goal: to preserve, modernize, and elevate the cultural heritage for future generations.
Under Chief Iyke's stewardship, Eyirieyi was transformed from a one-day gathering into a full weeklong cultural celebration, incorporating a wide range of activities that showcased the rich traditions of the people. Women were actively involved this year through a vibrant cultural dance competition, which saw participation from over eight communities. In a display of friendly rivalry and cultural pride, Umubiri emerged as second, followed by Ogbe Nneisi.
The festival drew an impressive crowd of over 800 attendees, including dignitaries, youths, and cultural enthusiasts. While the winners received substantial prizes, all participants were honored with consolation prizes, fostering unity and appreciation among all.
A major highlight of this year’s festival was the intentional focus on the youth. Educational programs were held, including lectures, interactive sessions, and panel discussions exploring the significance of Eyirieyi. These provided the youth a platform to learn, ask questions, and understand their roots.
Another exciting addition was a novelty football match between the communities of Obohia and Umuokrika, further strengthening inter-community relationships. A roadshow from Obohia to Aforu energized the air with traditional music, dancing, and jubilant parades, culminating in Eyirieyi Eve festivities across various locations.
The grand finale began with a thanksgiving church service, followed by the traditional "Igba Ntu Ekpe" gun salute that echoed across the town. The spectacular climax of the festival featured village-by-village Ekpe and Ubu dances, symbolizing unity in diversity.
This year’s festival gained significant support from corporate bodies, including Golden Gin, Cymanshinap Fruit, and others. Looking ahead, Chief Iyke Ezeh expressed his ambition to bring on board major brands like Nigeria Breweries, Guinness, Peak Milk, Budweiser, and Hero Lager.
“In five years,” Chief Iyke shared, “Eyirieyi Obohia will outgrow its current grounds. We envision hosting it at larger venues like secondary school fields and having Nigerian music icons like Davido and Flavour perform here in Mbaise.”
Celebrating Unity and Dignitaries in Attendance at his residence,
Chief Iyke used the occasion to call on all sons and daughters of Obohia to embrace love, unity, and peace—values he described as the foundation for greater communiing advancement. He warmly welcomed distinguished guests including:
Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha and entourage
Hon. Emeka Chinedu
Dr. Kachi Nwoga
Mr. Obed Obioma Ozuzu from Akabo Ikeduru, who praised Chief Ezeji, Iyke Ezeh as “a man of vision and integrity,” noting this year’s celebration as “uniquely exceptional.”
The Eyirieyi Obohia 2025 Festival was not only a cultural celebration but also a strategic movement to reignite pride, foster unity, and promote cultural tourism in Mbaise. With the remarkable leadership of Chief Iyke Ezeh and the overwhelming support of the people, Eyirieyi is on track to becoming one of Nigeria’s most cherished cultural events.
