By Michael Ovat – Awka
The ever busy Amawbia community in Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State, on Saturday, September 27th, 2026 came more alive as it traditional ruler, HRH Igwe Sunday Okonkwo, celebrated his first New Yam Festival in a colourful ceremony.
The palace of Igwe Okonkwo began receiving visitors who trooped in large numbers from different parts of Anambra State and beyond to be part of the epoch-making celebration.
The event officially held at the community’s town hall premises.
The several layers of security mounted at strategic points across the town by police personnel and the state-owned security outfit (Udo-Ga-Chi and Agunechemba operatives) added to the significance of the event.
Igwe Okonkwo performed the symbolic breaking of the cola and yam, marking the commencement of his first 2026 New Yam Festival celebration amid loud ovation from the crowd.
The highly travelled, cerebral and loved monarch also offered prayers for the people and residents of Amawbia, praying particularly for peace, prosperous businesses, successful careers for civil servants and the continued progress of Amawbia Kingdom.
The occasion became even more vibrant with the presence of several prominent politicians believed to be positioning themselves for various offices ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Among those who graced the occasion was the serving house of Representative member representing Awka North/South Federal Constituency, Prof Lilian Orugbu and NDC candidate for the 2027 polls.
Several other political candidates from different political parties also turned up to celebrate with Igwe Sunday Okonkwo on the occasion of his first New Yam Festival on the throne.
One of his cambinet member, Chief Emmanuel Ifecinachi, who spoke in an interview with Journalists, described the influx of high-profile personalities into the community as unprecedented.
He said the turnout was a demonstration of Igwe Okonkwo’s capacity and reach.
The celebration, which continued into the night, attracted the highly presence of Igwe Gibson Nwosu, the traditional ruler of Awka, the capital city of Anambra State, representatives from the State Ministry of Local Government/Chieftancy/Community Matters, among other special guests.
The colourful event ended on a high note, with residents irrespective of tribe, ethnic and religion background celebrating the monarch and the cultural heritage of Amawbia Kingdom.
