Thursday 23 February 2012

The Ofala Festival of Onitsha (2011)


During the 2011 edition of the Ofala Festival of the city of ONITSHA, led by the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe, the Documentary Department of OYASAF captured the colours of the people’s rich culture.
Ceremonial paraphernalia on display during the Ofala Festival. PHOTO: ARIYO OGUNTIMEHIN
 The 2011 edition was sponsored by Globacom.
Ofala Festival is reputed to be the biggest traditional festival in the South East of Nigeria. Ofala is a cultural extravaganza marking the climax of New Yam celebration of Onitsha. The three-day event is usually celebrated annually in the second week of October.
Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe during the Ofala Festival. PHOTO: ARIYO OGUNTIMEHIN
 The opening ceremony was attended by Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, traditional rulers of other towns in Anambra state, other states of the South East and other special guests.
The highlight of the day was the emergence of Igwe Achebe from five days of seclusion during which he offered prayers for the wellbeing of his people and had to personally attend to his domestic needs.
 The festival attracts people all around the world. The peak of the festival involves the Obi of Onitsha in a dancing parade accompanied by his chiefs.

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