By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

Anambra State Government on Friday officially approved the hosting of a popular Awka traditional festival of sticks and masquerades known as ‘Imo Awka’.

The approval which was conveyed in an official letterhead of the Anambra State Ministry of Culture, Entertainment and Tourism and signed by the Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment and Tourism, Udoji Amedu, came barely 24hours ahead of the finale scheduled for tomorrow, Saturday, May 23, 2026.

Imo-Awka Festival, an age long annual cultural festival of the Awka community draws the presence of Awka indigenes, both at home and those living abroad, visitors, culture enthusiasts and dignitaries from across the globe.

It remains the most culturally significant traditional celebrations in Awka, the capital city of Anambra State.

Meanwhile, government has emphasized the need for orderliness, peaceful co-existence, and strict compliance with public safety measures during the finale celebration.

According to the letter dated May 21, 2026, the state government approved the celebration after receiving written assurances from the Awka Development Union, Nigeria and the Ozo Awka Society regarding adequate security arrangements and peaceful conduct during the event.

It stated that the approval aligns with its commitment to promoting the cultural heritage and traditions of the people of Anambra State.

The statement reads in part: “Government acknowledges the strategic importance of Awka as the state capital. The city regularly witnesses heavy human and vehicular traffic due to political, administrative, and commercial activities.”

It warned that there must be no blocking or closure of public roads during the celebration. It further warned against any obstruction of vehicular or human movement across the city.

The government also prohibited the brandishing or use of dangerous weapons by masquerades or any group participating in the festival.

In addition, the letter emphasized that no resident, visitor, or road user should be harassed, intimidated, assaulted, or subjected to violence by masquerades or any individual participating in the celebration.

Furthermore, participants of the festival are urged to conduct themselves lawfully and celebrate the festival in a manner that reflects the cultural values and dignity of the Awka people.