Obi of Onitsha goes into seclusion ahead of this year's grand finale of Ofala festival

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Obi of Onitsha: Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe

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By Madu Obi

The Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe has gone into seclusion to prepare himself spiritually ahead of the final phase of this year's Ofala festival.

During the seclusion, the Monarch is expected to com­mune with the spirits and become clean to enhance the fortunes of his people,

This year's Ofala, with the theme, ‘Njiko na Ntachi’ (Unity and Perseverance), will come to a climax this weekend and the seclusion is part of the traditional cer­emonies that precede the celebration.

A statement signed by Ozonmma Tony Nezieanya, a member of Media Lead, strate­gic marketing communication subcommittee, said the sacred rituals are a vital part of Onitsha’s rich cultural heritage, adding that the spiritual re­treat of the monarch is also meant to shield him from public view within the period.

The grand celebration of Ofa­la Festival 2025 will be highlight­ed by Iru Ofala which comes on October 17. It is a day of majesty and splendor, reserved for the monarch and his chiefs.

This will be followed by Azu Ofala on October 18; which is a day for the people, when age grades troop out in colourful displays to pay homage to the monarch.

“We are excited to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Onit­sha through the Ofala festival.

This year’s theme emphasizes the importance of unity and perseverance in our community,” the Chairman, Ofala Strategic Marketing and Com­munications Subcommittee, Nnaemeka Maduegbuna said.