The Ibeku Ancient Kingdom in Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State has announced plans to revive its historic IzoAhia festival, a cultural tradition believed to be over 3,000 years old.
Speaking at the Ibeku ancestral home in Ishieke Ibeku on Friday, prominent community leader and Ochiagha (Warrior) Ibeku, Prince Benjamin Apugo, said the festival was last celebrated in 1972—over 50 years ago.
Apugo, a philanthropist and entrepreneur in the oil industry, explained that the IzoAhia festival, traditionally held before the annual New Yam festival in August, is aimed at preserving the community’s heritage and instilling discipline among the youth.
“This was last done in 1972. Most of those who performed it then have passed on—only about one percent are still alive. Now, we are ready to bring it back this July,” he said.
He added that the revived celebration will attract indigenes from across the state and abroad, with invitations extended to visitors and neighbouring communities.
“Our brothers outside will return home and we’ll showcase Ibeku traditions to the world. This festival predates the arrival of the British in Nigeria.”
Apugo noted that similar festivals are held by neighbouring Olokoro people every 10 years, down from the previous 20-year interval. The IzoAhia tradition, he said, will now be observed every five years going forward.
Responding to questions from journalists, Apugo—who played key roles in founding both the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC)—stressed the significance of the revival.
“The benefit is to revive what our fathers did. It will help the youth learn respect, obedience, and our traditions. It will also promote discipline and discourage unwholesome lifestyles like cybercrime,” he said.
Over ten traditional rulers from Ibeku clans attended the event, including His Royal Highness Eze Edward Ibeabuchi of Okwulaga Ibeku.
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