By Patrick Ochei
The traditional ruler of Issele-Uku, His Royal Majesty Agbogidi Obi Nduka, JP (MNSE), has marked the 10th edition of the Izu Afiachi Festival, ushering in the 2026 Ine Aho celebration with a colourful display of culture, tradition and communal bonding.
Obi Nduka made his first public appearance for this year’s festival on Friday, August 14, visiting Afor Market as part of the traditional activities marking the occasion.
His arrival at the market attracted a large crowd of residents, traders and children, who welcomed the monarch with excitement and jubilation. He moved through the market, exchanging pleasantries with members of the Omu cult and purchasing various items.
The monarch also delighted the crowd by giving cash gifts to market women, men and children, who responded with singing, dancing and cheers.
After completing his market visit, Obi Nduka returned to the palace to a warm reception from the waiting crowd.
At the palace, the monarch offered prayers for the kingdom and pronounced blessings upon the land, formally setting the tone for the 2026 Ine Aho Festival.
The items purchased at Afor Market were later displayed within the palace premises, allowing members of the community to select from them and share in the monarch’s celebration.
A distinctive feature of Obi Nduka’s participation in Izu Afiachi is his traditional practice of shopping at the market without bargaining or seeking prior information about the prices of goods. He selects the items he wants and leaves the sellers to determine what they consider appropriate, reinforcing the festival’s spirit of generosity and communal sharing.
Obi Nduka began participating publicly in Izu Afiachi in 2017, following his coronation in December 2016. While his first appearance at the market was marked by emotion and the weight of a newly assumed traditional responsibility, the monarch has, over the years, become increasingly familiar with the cultural expectations surrounding the festival.
At Friday’s celebration, he appeared relaxed and cheerful, smiling, dancing and distributing money to the enthusiastic crowd as the people danced alongside him.
The 10th Izu Afiachi therefore provided another opportunity for the Issele-Uku community to celebrate its heritage while strengthening the bond between the traditional institution and the people.
