Anambra Guber Candidates Ukachukwu, Chukwuma Celebrate Ofala Festival With Igwe Achebe, Onitsha People
BY GLORY UGOBA
TWO leading candidates in the upcoming Anambra Governorship Election, Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Dr. Paul Chukwuma of the Young Progressive Party (YPP), joined the people of Onitsha on Friday to celebrate the 2025 Ofala Festival of His Majesty, Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, CFR, MNI, the Obi of Onitsha.
The colourful event, held at the Ime Obi Palace in Onitsha North Local Government Area, marked the 25th Ofala Festival of the revered monarch and showcased a grand display of Igbo culture, heritage, and pageantry. The monarch, fondly known as Agbogidi, made his ceremonial appearance before his subjects and guests amid jubilation.
Ukachukwu Hails Igwe Achebe As “Pride Of The Igbo Nation”
Prince Ukachukwu, accompanied by party supporters and traditional leaders, paid homage to Igwe Achebe, describing him as “a pride of the Igbo nation” whose reign has strengthened cultural preservation and unity among the people of Onitsha.
He mingled with titled chiefs, members of the Otu Odu women’s group, and the Agbalanze society, all elegantly dressed in white regalia and traditional beads.
Outside the palace, cheering crowds hailed Ukachukwu as the “coming emancipator,” expressing optimism about his candidacy and calling for a new era of leadership in Anambra.
The celebration also featured vibrant performances by masquerade dancers and musical troupes, with corporate sponsors such as GLO, Hero Lager, and Trophy Beer adding colour to the festivities through branded displays and cultural exhibitions.
Chukwuma Commends Monarch’s Leadership, Preaches Unity
In a goodwill message, Dr. Paul Chukwuma congratulated the Obi of Onitsha and the people on the successful hosting of the festival, describing the monarch as “a symbol of peace, wisdom, and visionary leadership.”
He emphasised that the Ofala Festival goes beyond cultural celebration, serving as a reaffirmation of unity, pride, and shared heritage.
“Onitsha under the reign of His Majesty has remained a beacon of progress, culture, and enlightenment across Anambra and Igboland,” he said. “As a proud son and your incoming Governor, I celebrate this heritage that binds us in pride and purpose.”
Both candidates extended prayers for the monarch’s long life and continued strength to lead the ancient kingdom with grace and dignity.
Symbol Of Continuity And Tradition
The Ofala Festival remains one of Nigeria’s most prominent traditional celebrations — a time when the Obi reaffirms his bond with his people, receives their homage, and blesses them in return.
Under Igwe Achebe’s 24-year reign, the festival has grown into a globally recognised cultural event, symbolising continuity, peace, and unity in the ancient city of Onitsha.
As political activities heighten ahead of the November 8 Anambra governorship election, the presence of top contenders at this year’s festival underscores the deep intersection between culture and politics in the state’s evolving democratic narrative.
