The Obi of Onitsha, His Royal Highness Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, has described the Ofala festival as a homecoming opportunity for indigenes and citizens of the Anambra commercial hub city.
Achebe made this statement on Monday while responding to questions in an interview on Arise Television, monitored by DAILY POST.
He said, “Ofala Onitsha is a centuries-old tradition, dating back 600 years. The festival coincides with the harvest season and serves as an annual progress review.
“As part of the celebration, I undertake a 5-day spiritual retreat in isolation, seeking forgiveness for my people’s wrongdoings and blessings for the year ahead.
“Ofala has become a global homecoming event for Onitsha indigenes and citizens, showcasing Onitsha’s culture and welcoming the world.”
DAILY POST reports that the Ofala festival is an annual ceremony practiced by Igbo people, particularly the indigenes of Onitsha, Umueri, Umuoji and other neighboring communities such as Aguleri, Nnewi and Ukpo in Dunukofia Local Government Area.
The festival serves as a rite of renewal of the king and is similar to the Igue festival in Benin and the Ine, Osi or Ogbanigbe festival in many mid-West Igbo communities of Nigeria.
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