Traditional procession to the Obi’s palace, the symbolic ‘Ina Aka’ ceremony and an elaborate banquet highlight a festival that brings together culture, leadership and political fellowship.
By: Peter Legacy
OGWASHI-UKU, DELTA STATE — It was a celebration of tradition, community solidarity and political fellowship as Hon. (Chief) Isaac Ozoemezie Anwuzia, the Negbasei of Ogwashi-Uku, hosted a gathering of prominent political figures, traditional stakeholders and community members at an elaborate celebration of the annual Ine Festival.
The event, which attracted guests from across Delta State, combined traditional observances with a grand social reception, placing the rich cultural heritage of Ogwashi-Uku at the centre of a gathering that also provided an opportunity for political leaders and community stakeholders to interact.
From the morning’s traditional activities to the colourful procession to the palace of the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, the celebration reflected the enduring significance of the Ine Festival as an expression of cultural identity, loyalty to the traditional institution and communal belonging.
A FESTIVAL ROOTED IN TRADITION
The day’s activities began in the morning with traditional rites before progressing into a lively dancing procession from Chief Anwuzia’s residence to the palace of the Obi.
The procession, accompanied by the festive atmosphere associated with the occasion, drew attention to the cultural importance of the festival and its place in the traditional life of Ogwashi-Uku.
Dressed in an elegant white traditional garment, Chief Anwuzia stood out among the participants as the celebration moved through its various stages.
The procession represented more than a ceremonial display. It provided a public expression of respect for the traditional institution and the cultural practices through which the community preserves its heritage across generations.
‘INA AKA’: REAFFIRMING ALLEGIANCE TO THE MONARCHY
The high point of the traditional observance was the exchange with the Obi, known as “Ina Aka”, during which traditional chiefs renew their commitment and allegiance to the monarchy.
The ceremony underscored the relationship between the traditional leadership and the palace, reinforcing the place of customary obligations in the community’s cultural and institutional life.
For Ogwashi-Uku, where traditional institutions remain important symbols of identity and continuity, the ceremony provided a defining moment in the day’s proceedings.
The gathering at the palace also highlighted the role of cultural festivals in bringing together traditional leaders, political office holders and community members around shared heritage.
‘OGWA NEGBASEI’ BECOMES A MELTING POINT FOR POLITICAL LEADERS
Following the traditional activities, attention shifted to the grand reception at the residence of Chief Anwuzia, popularly associated with the “Ogwa Negbasei.”
The venue became a meeting point for political leaders, community figures, associates and well-wishers who gathered to celebrate with the host.
Multiple live bands supplied entertainment, while a wide selection of delicacies and drinks was served to guests throughout the reception.
The elaborate hospitality, combined with the presence of influential political figures, gave the celebration a broader dimension beyond its traditional foundation.
Among the prominent groups represented was the Delta Mandate, the political organisation chaired by Chief Anwuzia. Its members and other political stakeholders joined the gathering, making the occasion an opportunity for fellowship and the strengthening of relationships across political and community circles.
The event demonstrated how traditional festivals can serve as important meeting points where cultural identity, personal relationships and public life intersect.
However, the central purpose of the celebration remained the observance of the Ine Festival and the opportunity it provided for the host to welcome people who had come to honour him.
ANWUZIA EXPRESSES GRATITUDE TO GUESTS
Speaking during the celebration, Chief Anwuzia expressed appreciation for the large turnout, describing himself as overwhelmed by the show of solidarity from people who travelled from different parts of Delta State to join him.
“I am overwhelmed with the outpouring of solidarity. People came from all over Delta State to be with me as we celebrate the Ine Festival. I wish them all the blessings,” he said.
His remarks reflected gratitude not only for the attendance of prominent personalities but also for the participation of community members and associates who made the celebration memorable.
The Negbasei’s message of goodwill reinforced the spirit of hospitality that characterised the reception, as guests shared in the celebration of the cultural occasion.
DIGNITARIES FROM ACROSS DELTA STATE ATTEND
The celebration attracted an array of political leaders, public figures, community stakeholders and other prominent personalities.
Among those in attendance were Chief Chris Agbobu, Chief Edwin Uzor, Chief Festus Ochonogor, Hon. Chief Solomon Igrakpata, Professor Frank Nwaugu, Hon Austin Chikezie and Hon. Smart Ijeoma Ufoh.
Other notable guests included Hon. Chief Tony Ide Nwaka(PhD), Pastor Norbert Akachukwu Sochukwudinma; Chief James Onwordi, popularly known as Ibori Ubulu; Hon. Collins Iwebuno; and Comrade Benjamin Okocha.
Also present were Prince Andrew Obi Okolie, Prince Jude Elue and Engr. Jude Itegbe, MNSE, alongside several other political associates, community leaders and well-wishers.
Their presence reflected the broad network of relationships surrounding Chief Anwuzia and the attraction of the Ine Festival as a significant cultural and social occasion.
The gathering also brought together individuals from different backgrounds, united by their connections to the host, their interest in the community and their participation in the celebration.
CULTURE, COMMUNITY AND LEADERSHIP
Beyond the entertainment and hospitality, the celebration highlighted the continuing relevance of traditional festivals in community life.
Such occasions provide opportunities for communities to preserve inherited customs, reaffirm respect for traditional institutions and bring together people whose paths might otherwise rarely cross.
For Ogwashi-Uku, the Ine Festival offers a setting in which cultural practices are publicly observed and relationships between the palace, traditional chiefs and the wider community are renewed.
The attendance of political leaders and public figures also illustrated the intersection between traditional authority and contemporary public life in Delta State.
Chief Anwuzia’s celebration brought these elements together through a programme that moved from traditional observances and the palace procession to an elaborate reception marked by music, food and fellowship.
The occasion also served as a reminder that community leadership extends beyond formal political engagements, with cultural participation and hospitality providing additional avenues for maintaining relationships and strengthening communal ties.
A CELEBRATION THAT BROUGHT OGWASHI-UKU TOGETHER
As the live bands entertained guests and the reception continued, the Ogwa Negbasei reflected the festive spirit of an occasion that attracted people from different parts of Delta State.
For Chief Anwuzia, the large turnout was an expression of solidarity and a source of appreciation. For the guests, it was an opportunity to participate in a cultural celebration while renewing personal, political and community connections.
The day’s events from the morning’s traditional activities to the procession to the Obi’s palace and the symbolic Ina Aka ceremony—placed the cultural heritage of Ogwashi-Uku firmly at the heart of the celebration.
Ultimately, the Ine Festival gathering demonstrated the enduring capacity of cultural traditions to bring people together, reinforce community identity and create spaces for fellowship across political and social boundaries.
In Ogwashi-Uku, the celebration was more than a banquet. It was a meeting of tradition, community and leadership, with Chief Isaac Ozoemezie Anwuzia’s message of gratitude providing a fitting conclusion to a memorable occasion.