The Biggest Event of the Year
New Yam/Uje Festival.
Every year in different places, there are diverse occasions been celebrated at different times, and they are so special to the people in that area. Being an annual event, it is usually well prepared for by the people.
In my place, the biggest event is the new year/ uje festival. During this event, the people of Enede Nsukwa come from different parts of the world to celebrate it as an annual festival and also thank God for the privilege to experience the event in another year. It is organized by the Royal family and all the street are represented in the royal palace on the day of the celebration. All the indigenes of Nsukwa are expected to participate in that event, while those that come from outside the town also invite their friends to experience the occasion.
The New yam/uje festival is as old as the existence of the Enede ancestors. Before now, it was more of a traditional event, but within time past, modernization has helped them to improve on the method of celebration, which has made it possible for everyone, both traditional, Christians and everyone to take part in this event. Unlike before when it was much of the traditionalists. This event has been in no less than the late 18th century. People with their groups gather with their different delicacies prepared with yam, pray on it, eat and dine with one another, thanking God for the privilege of celebrating another year’s festival.
One of the most favourite meal in this event is pounded yam and ogbono soup, which is usually garnished with big dried catfish and bush meat. I just remembered the look and I am already salivating!
Its attracts huge expenses especially if you are from the diaspora because it is meant to be celebrated in mass, sharing and displaying love and unity among each other. No one comes for the festival, without a memory to share, and a wish for another year experience.
During the festival celebration, the wives of the royal family will always gather in front of the palace to display their dance. On that day, they are well decorated, they usually look gorgeous and beautiful, and the king will also come out to dance with them in the company of kinsmen.
Though I don’t usually attend the festival annually, because I plan myself for it any year I want to attend. Some people visit from the diaspora for the event, and it also creates an opportunity for people to meet their old friends and relatives, that they have not met for a long time.
I do participate as a bystander, but active in my way. It usually takes place in August as an annual event. As a result of COVID 19 pandemic, many activities which involve the gathering of people in mass has been banned by the federal government, and it is indefinite until the situation comes under hold. As such, it remains indefinite, and we are not sure yet especially as the time is already getting closer. I doubt if it will still hold this year. But if not this year, hopefully, it will hold next year August. Indeed, New yam/uje festival is an interesting, and all Nsukwa born always wish to attend annually to experience its fun with their loved ones.
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