Today, the 18th day of July 2019 marks the yearly celebration of “Iwalu OkwuAna ji” for the Ana deity at the Okwu-Ana shrine, Nnewi, Anambra State.
“Iwalu OkwuAna Ji” is a yearly traditional/customary rites performed for the “Ana” deity. Ana deity is the first deity to consume the produce of the land (IRI JI), no other deity or being eats new yam before the deity in Nnewi. According to Chief Chiagozie Osunkwo Okpala Nnewi(Aka JI ofor Nnewi), “no one sells new yam in Nnewi until “Ana Nnewi” takes the new yam first”. “This is an ancient tradition of our fathers, that we should partake in and it’s a time of merriment and joy says Mr Ikedife(Isi Ogwu Ogwu Agu, Igwe na Ebu Eze).
The chief custodian/chief priest of the “Ana Diety” High Chief Priest Obiajulu Udoye, popularly called Isiana Nnewi who also doubles as today’s host was seen offering prayers and sacrifices to the deity, he offered yams, chicken, cows, kola nuts etc.
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Isiana Nnewi also unveiled the sculpture of Ndi Ichie Okwuana Nnewi (the former chief priests of the deity). During the unveiling, Chief Chiagozie Osunkwo (Okpala Nnewi) prayed fervently that the deity would bless Nnewi and said that people who come into the “Ana” shrine are blessed. He also prayed for those who want the good of the land; that the land will be good to them, and those who pray for the downfall of the land will see their downfall. He gave the Ndi Ichie kola nut and drinks to join in the celebrations.
The Okwu-Ana shrine was filled with Okwu-Ana faithful, friends, supporters, and well-wishers. Members of the National Association of Road Transport Owners(NARTO), who were led by their Chairman Idu Chijioke Mbadugha were present to show support to Isiana Nnewi and the people of Nnewi.
The CEO of Visa Petroleum Resources and Nduchris Motors Nig. Ltd, Chief Ndubueze Ezeokoli was also present to support the event of today. Chief Ezeokoli said that “cultures and traditions like this should be celebrated, there is nothing evil about these traditions”.
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Also, the wife of Isiana, Lolo Onyinyechukwu Udoye (Ugobueze di ya) was present to show support to her husband in today’s celebration. She said, “I am so happy how today’s event turned out and all the support we got from everyone”.
The Iwalu OkwuAna JI festival is held once every year at the Okwu-Ana shrine in Nnewi, Anambra State.
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