In a vibrant celebration of culture and unity, stakeholders across Ebonyi State have applauded the Member Representing Ikwo/Ezza South Federal Constituency and Chairman of the House Committee on Reformatory Institutions, Rt. Hon. (Comrade) Chinedu Ogah, OON, for his pivotal role in reviving the Aji Ereke Festival — a significant cultural event long cherished by the people of Ikwo Noyo.
The commendation was made during the 2025 edition of the Amagu Aji Ereke Annual Cultural Carnival, held at Edukwu Edo in Item Amagu, in line with the traditional rotational hosting arrangement. Among the dignitaries present was Prof. Anthony Itumo, Senior Lecturer at Ebonyi State University, who praised the lawmaker’s commitment to cultural preservation.
“This culture must not be allowed to go extinct,” Prof. Itumo said. “I call on traditional leaders to uphold the fulcrum of our culture and tradition. Its significance is deeply rooted in the history of mankind.”
Delivering goodwill on behalf of the Executive Governor of Ebonyi State, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, the Speaker of the Ebonyi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Moses Ije Odunwa, lauded the Amagu community for safeguarding their heritage. The governor reiterated his administration’s dedication to grassroots development, highlighting the inclusion of a 5km road project starting from Abina Amagu in the 2025 state budget.
“I remain committed to grassroots development,” the governor stated through his representative. “Our administration will continue to support cultural heritage and community development. I encourage the community to remain united and peaceful.”
He further applauded Rep. Ogah for championing efforts to preserve and promote the cultural identity of the Ikwo people.
Other speakers at the event included Chief Matthias Adum, Principal Secretary to the Governor; Chairman of the occasion; represented by Prince Chinedu Uburu, Chief Okeagu Ogada; and Chief Sunday Nwankwo, who was represented by the Deputy Chairman of Ikwo Local Government. Traditional rulers and community leaders also commended the revival of the festival, noting its role in fostering unity, encouraging progress, and attracting development.
The 2025 Aji Ereke Cultural Carnival stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Ikwo people and their renewed commitment to cultural pride, unity, and community-driven development.
The carnival drew other high-profile crowd of stakeholders and dignitaries, including Senator Kenneth Eze (represented by Dr. Philip Eworo); local government officials; commissioners (Chief Oguzor Offia-Nwali, Dr Donatus Ilang, Hon. Jude Chikadibia Okpor; members of the State Executive Council led by Deputy APC Chairman Hon. Chinedu Nwali; councillors, and DC coordinators, among others.