Battle Royale As Ndigwe Ignores Soludo To Announce Imoka Activities
Chief Austin Ndigwe has announced activities of the 2026 Egwu Imoka Festival for between May 18 and May 23.
Ndigwe who made the announcement in his capacity as the Eze Odinani of Awka Kingdom said it followed consultations by the Imo Awka Chief Priest.
Announcement and organising of Egwu Imoka Festival, the traditional event which exhibits the culture and historical values of the people of Awka is exclusively reserved for the traditional ruler of the town.
The stool which has been in dispute was resolved with the submission of the report of Panel of Inquiry and release of White Paper by the government which recognised HRH, Igwe Gibson Nwosu as the valid traditional ruler of Awka.
The report also barred Ndigwe to stop parading himself as the traditional ruler as he was not elected by his people and there could not be two rulers in one kingdom.
But in a daring move, Ndigwe in a statement said he had endorsed the dates released by the Chief Priest of Imo Awka shrine adding that it was a positive step that upheld the sanctity and continuity of Awka’s rich traditions.
He said the major events were May 18, Umuokpu Day; May 22, Opueke and May 26, Egwu Imoka Day proper.
“These dates form part of the sacred timeline of the age-long Imo Awka festival, a vibrant celebration that honours Imoka, the guardian goddess of Awka people.
“It also reinforces unity, cultural heritage, and spiritual renewal across the 33 villages of the ancient kingdom.
“I welcome with great joy and full support the dates released by our revered Chief Priest and traditionalists for the 2026 edition of Egwu Imoka.
“These days are not mere calendar entries, they are sacred milestones that connect us to our ancestors, celebrate the strength of our women, and invoke the blessings of Imoka for peace, progress, and prosperity in Awka Kingdom,” the monarch declared.
He further emphasized that the festival remains a unifying force for Ndi Awka, both at home and in the diaspora. “This announcement signals our collective readiness to prepare spiritually and logistically so that the 2026 edition will surpass previous years in order, grandeur, and cultural depth,” he added.
Ndigwe urged all sons and daughters of Awka, youth groups, village unions, and stakeholders to begin preparations in earnest while maintaining the highest level of discipline and peace.
