On July 6, 2026, the Ezekiel Cultural Civic Centre in Onueke hosted the grand finale of the Oke-aku festival, a significant event marking the transition between the end of the old yam harvest and the start of the new one. The celebration, which typically occurs between July and September, serves as a vital pillar for unity and cultural identity among the Ezza Ezekuna people.
Thousands gathered for the festivities, which featured traditional dances, communal dining, and displays of heritage. The event drew attendees from across Ebonyi State, reflecting a broad sense of community and shared history. Community leaders, including Ezza South Chairperson Eucharia Nwali and Ezza North Chief Moses Ogodo Ali, advocated for the preservation of these traditions for future generations.
Chief Innocent Ugo Chima, leader of the Ezza Ezekuna Elders Council, noted that the festival was established by their ancestor, Ezekuna, to bring order and serve as a traditional New Year. He emphasized that the occasion is meant to foster peace, reconciliation, and progress. The Chairman of the Ebonyi State Traditional Rulers Council, Eze Charles Mkpuma, also praised the event as a symbol of love and truthfulness, while encouraging continued support for Governor Francis Nwifuru.
Governor Nwifuru expressed his appreciation for the warm reception and the people’s solidarity. He encouraged the community to maintain their unity and emphasized the importance of agricultural productivity. Furthermore, Dr. Darlington Ugota and Senator Ken Ezze highlighted the festival’s role in spiritual renewal, noting that the event acts as a platform for elders to offer blessings for the coming year’s prosperity and success in various trades.
