Soludo Warns Against Parallel New Yam Festival In Communities
The government of Anambra has warned residents of the state against organising parallel celebration of new yam or ‘Iwa Ji’ festival in communities.
The Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs gave the warning in a Statement signed by the Commissioner, Chief Vin. Ezeaka.
The letter which was made available on Tuesday said the government had noted unlawful activities of some individuals and groups in some communities which bordered on parallel celebration of the new yam festival.
The Commissioner said such practices were in total contravention of the customs and tradition of the people.
He recalled that the government had previously issued a directive on the matter through a letter to Presidents-General and traditional rulers of communities.
“It has also been observed that some individuals and groups now hold new yam festivals in their various communities before or on the same date with the Traditional Rulers.
“This amounts to unlawful usurping of the traditional rights of royal fathers and creation of rooms for possible breakdown of law and order in the affected communities.
“The government reiterates its position on this matter and hereby directs, effective immediately, that no individual or group shall henceforth hold New Yam Festival, Iwa Ji, Iri Ji or by any name it is called before the traditional rulers or on the same date wit
h them,” it said.
