By CHIMEZIE ANASO

Igwe Alfred Achebe, the Obi of Onitsha will go into seclusion from Oct. 7 to kick off activities of the 2026 annual Onitsha Ofala festival scheduled for Oct. 16 and Oct. 17.

Chief Mike Areh, the Chairman of the Ofala Steering Committee who disclosed this in a Statement in Awka on Monday said this year’s edition had the theme “Igba Mbo, Iga N’Iru” translated as ‘Strive, Advance’.

Areh said during the one native week of four days incommunicado, the traditional ruler would negotiate the fortunes of the kingdom with the ancestors.

He said that this year’s edition marked a significant milestone in the evolution of Ofala from a sacred rite of renewal for the Obi into a platform for collective progress for Onitsha people.

He said ‘Ogbalido’, the feast of atonement for brave men, elders and big game hunters would hold on Oct. 10 to signal the final countdown to Ofala and formal announcement of public festivities.

Areh said Oct. 11 would be for ‘Inyepu Ukwu N’nlo Eze Onicha’ which is the Obi’s ceremonial emergence from spiritual seclusion and return to his people, while a community medical community outreach would hold on Oct. 12.

He said activities also include the Oreze Art Exhibition, an international art exhibition showcasing contemporary and traditional works as well as youth carnival which celebrates music, dance, fashion, and talent by Onitsha youth.

“Oct. 16 is Iru Ofala, the highpoint of the Festival, this is when Obi makes his first public appearance after seclusion, blesses his people, receives homage.

“Oct. 17, 2026 is the Azu Ofala which is the second day of the grand public celebration, featuring continued homage, cultural performances, masquerades, and community engagement at Ime Obi.

“Thanksgiving service will be held at Bishop Crowder Memorial Anglican Church, Onitsha on Oct. 25,” he said.

Areh said for over 500 years, the people of Onitsha had shown resilience and had endured, adapted, and rose again throughevery challenge.

He appreciated Globacom and Orijin, the sponsors of the festival as well as their media partners amplifying the story of Onitsha to Nigeria and the world. (NAN)

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