Amainyi Traditional Ruler Sets September 27 for 2026 Iriji Festival
..Prof. Chidi Osuagwu, Prof. Damian Opata to Deliver Lectures on Igbo Traditional Perspectives
Photo : In the middle is Prof Chidi Osuagwu and by his left is HRH Eze Pharm.Emeka Ogbonna of Amainyi while right is Nze Khaka Samuel Nwankwo
By Everest Ezihe, Ihitte Uboma
The traditional ruler of Amainyi Ancient Community in Ihitte Uboma Local Government Area of Imo State, HRH Eze Pharm. Emeka Ogbonna (Inyi 3, Eze Ohazurumee), and his Eze-in-Council have announced plans for the traditional ruler’s 2026 Iriji ancestral cultural festival.
The annual heritage celebration is scheduled to hold on Sunday, September 27, 2026 (Afo), at the palace of the traditional ruler.
Speaking ahead of the event, Eze Ogbonna said he and members of his Eze-in-Council had resolved to enrich this year’s Iriji celebration with intellectual discourse as part of efforts to promote knowledge, preserve historical records and deepen appreciation of Igbo cultural heritage.
According to the traditional ruler, a major highlight of the celebration will be two historical and cultural lectures to be delivered by distinguished scholars.
Prof. Chidi Osuagwu is expected to speak on “Naturalist Erima Social System and Omanachi Governance Model,” while Prof. Damian Ugwutikiri Opata will deliver a lecture titled “Nnyocha/Ntughari Uche Maka Ako na Omenala Ndigbo: Reflections on Igbo Philosophy and Traditions.”
Eze Ogbonna explained that the lectures would provide an opportunity for participants to broaden their understanding of indigenous social structures, traditional governance systems, Igbo philosophy and the historical values embedded in the people’s cultural heritage.
The traditional fiesta is also expected to feature colourful cultural dances, masquerade displays and an array of traditional cuisines, adding glamour and excitement to the traditional ruler’s personal annual celebration.
Given the importance of Iriji in preserving the cultural identity and ancestral heritage of the people, sons and daughters of Amainyi, particularly those residing outside the community, have been urged to return home and join their traditional ruler in celebrating his 2026 Iriji cultural fiesta.
The traditional ruler and his cabinet also extended an invitation to in-laws, friends, associates and well-wishers of the community to participate in the occasion and join the people in celebrating the grace of God and the blessings of their ancestors upon them.
Prof. Chidi Osuagwu, who hails from Obowo Local Government Area of Imo State, is a biochemist, academic, researcher and writer who spent much of his academic career at the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO). He was a pioneer Head of the Department of Biomedical Technology and is a retired FUTO academic.
Prof. Damian Ugwutikiri Opata, on the other hand, is a renowned Nigerian scholar whose works span African literature, Igbo philosophy, Igbo worldview, oral traditions, proverbs, religion and culture. He was a professor in the Department of English and Literary Studies at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
The 2026 HRH Eze Pharm Emeka Ogbonna, Inyi 3 Iriji festival is therefore expected to combine cultural celebration with scholarly reflection on the enduring values, institutions and worldview of the Igbo people.
