The age-long cultural festival of Awka people, Egwu Imoka, came to a close yesterday with masquerades, individuals and groups gathered at ‘Olulu Imoka’ Shrine, Nkwo Amaenyi, Awka to pay homage to the deity, just as most parts of Zik’s Avenue were filled with people making merry.
The Presiding Chief Priest of Imoka deity, Nwamanke Nnake, who explained that the day was for masquerading; after women had done their outing the previous day, noted that the grand finale is solely for men, after which few rites are done to conclude the festival.
Also speaking on the day, the Chairman of the Organizing Committee for Egwu Imoka 2025, Chief Anayo Obiakor, and the Chairman of Ezinano Youths, Chief Nwokoye Nwosu, noted that the celebration signifies new year in Awka traditional calendar, and offers people the opportunity to thank and appreciate God; while praying for a successful planting season and blacksmithing activities.
Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Dr Law Mefor, who graced the festival later in the day, restated that the state government is not against tradition nor culture, but against those who hide behind them to perpetuate evil.
