By Christian ABURIME
Culture is a way of life. It is the heritage of a dynamic society whose roots must not be forgotten. For Ndị Anambra, the festive rhythm has carried us through Christmas Day’s joyful children’s festival, and now Ọnwa Dezemba turns up the cultural heat with one of the most powerful and awe-inspiring events of the season: the Ịgba Mmanwụ Festival.
This majestic celebration of our Igbo masquerade tradition will unfold across three iconic locations in the state: first on December 27 at 2pm in Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka; then on December 28 at 2pm in Township Stadium, Ekwulobia; and finally on December 29 at 2pm at Ezechima Primary School, Onitsha.
Symbolically, Ịgba Mmanwụ is beyond a banal traditional performance. It is a living bridge between past and present, where towering masquerades adorned in vibrant raffia, intricate beads, and fearsome masks stride into the arena, embodying spirits, ancestors, and the very essence of our people’s strength, mystery, and creativity.
The ground will tremble under the thunder of drums, flutes will pierce the air, and the crowd will erupt in cheers as the larger-than-life figures dance with breathtaking agility, grace, and raw power. Each masquerade tells its own story, some fierce and commanding, and others playful and wise, reminding every spectator of the deep cultural roots that make Ndị Anambra vibrant.
This is the heartbeat of our heritage pulsing through Ọnwa Dezemba. As families gather under the afternoon sun, children will be wide-eyed in wonder, elders nodding with quiet pride, and youth snapping videos that will spread our traditions across the globe. Whether you have grown up watching mmanwụ from your village square or you are returning from the diaspora to witness it for the first time in years, the sight of these majestic figures in motion will stir something ancient and unbreakable within onlookers.
Of course, our liberal-minded Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has ensured every venue is safe, secure, and ready to host this grand display of Igbo excellence. So Ndi Anambra, come dressed in your best traditional attire or simply as you are, bring your family, your friends, your phones, and your deepest sense of belonging. Arrive early to secure a good spot, feel the drums in your chest, and let the masquerades carry you into the soul of Anambra.
Through it all, Ịgba Mmanwụ is a declaration that our culture is alive, vibrant, and ready to shine before the eyes of the world this season. Ọnwa Dezemba na-eme egwu. Yes, December is the month of enchanting entertainment. Join the masquerade fun on December 27, 28, and 29!
Let the Solution continue!
