Ikwo Noyo Clan Marks Nnefioha Festival in Grand Style in Owerri
By Kelechi Ugo
In a colorful display of culture and unity, indigenes of Ebonyi State residing in Imo State, under the banner of the Ikwo Brothers Association (IBA), celebrated the Nnefioha Festival on August 6, 2025, in Owerri, the Imo State capital.
The well-attended event brought together prominent members of the community, including:
- Mr. Chukwuma Uwa – Chairman, IBA Imo Branch
- Mr. Monday Nwaidagu – Vice Chairman
- Mr. John Nwanchor – Patron
- Mr. Kenneth Uguru – Secretary
- Elder Simon Nwangwuta
- Mr. Uche Ugoma
- Mr. Bernard Ulebe – Former Chairman
- Igwe Kelechi
- Mr. Chika Nwali
- Mr. Chibyke Imeka
- Mr. Monday Nweke
- Mr. Emeka Ogboji
- Mr. Bartholomew Edede
- Mr. Chimaobi Igwe
- Mr. Ugoma Chukwuma
- Mr. Okere Ejiofor
Their presence underscored the importance of cultural identity and heritage among the Ikwo diaspora.
Nnefioha—also known as Nnesweoha—is a sacred annual festival of the Ikwo Noyo Clan in Ikwo LGA, Ebonyi State. It marks the end of the traditional calendar year and the beginning of a new agricultural cycle, particularly the yam harvest season.
The celebration holds deep meaning:
- Thanksgiving: For survival through the lean season
- Unity: Among family, clans, and diaspora
- Respect: For ancestors, tradition, and community values.
- The Festival Timeline and Rituals;
| Day | Local Name | Rituals & Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Nnesweoha / Oye Ose Ukpara | Exchange of old yams, kola nuts, palm wine, dried fish, and traditional gifts. Marks spiritual transition into the new year. |
| Day 2 | Ukata‑apha | Day of prayer, farm visits, and reflection. No burials or death announcements are allowed. |
| Day 3 | Unu‑apha | A day of rest, ritual cleansing, and opening the new yam ban. |
| Day 4 | Ekenwanekwa (Eke Day) | The highlight—official harvest and first eating of the new yam. Eating yams before this day is taboo. |
Feasting and Family Traditions
- Traditional dishes: Old yam porridge, pounded yam, maize delicacies, and palm wine
- Married women visit their maternal homes with gifts
- Newly married women undergo Ugvuoguruenya—an initiation into womanhood
💃🏽 Music and Dance Performances:
Energetic performances by local troupes and masquerades included:
- Okpuruegede
- Ode
- Ikpobina
- Okowe Ogbodogu Ayita
- Ekwemgba
These dances not only entertain but also pass on oral history, values, and folklore
Modern Significance and Civic Involvement;
Central Venue: Edukwu Noyo (Formerly Ili Noyo)
The historic gathering site at Ekpelu is undergoing transformation, with plans for an ultra-modern civic pavilion to host future events.
Government and Traditional Endorsement;
The festival enjoys backing from high-profile figures such as:
- Governor of Ebonyi State
- Former Governor Martin Elechi
- Speaker of the State Assembly
- Local monarchs and traditional leaders
Messages from Cultural Leaders
The Commissioner for Culture, Hon. Stanley Ogbuewu, praised the festival’s role in:
- Promoting peace and unity
- Reinforcing cultural values
- Inspiring generational continuity
The Nnefioha Festival of the Ikwo Noyo Clan is more than a cultural event—it is a symbol of renewal, resilience, and ancestral reverence. Celebrated both at home and in the diaspora, it serves as a bridge between generations, seasons, and spirits. Through dance, rituals, food, and fellowship, it continues to keep the heartbeat of Ikwo tradition alive—loud, proud, and timeless.
