The Anambra State Government has approved the celebration of the 2026 Imo Awka Festival, scheduled to hold on Saturday.
The approval comes after an earlier proposal to reschedule the event due to its clash with the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) primary elections. Authorities had initially expressed concern that holding both events on the same day could strain security arrangements, as the festival is a major cultural gathering in Awka dedicated to the god of fertility and purification.
However, in a statement issued by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and signed by Commissioner Udorji Amedu, the government confirmed that the festival can proceed as planned. The letter was addressed to the President-General of the Awka Development Union and copied to His Royal Highness, Igwe Gibson Nwosu (Eze Uzu II), the traditional ruler of Awka, as well as the leadership of the Ozo Awka Society.
The Anambra government explained that the decision followed assurances from community leaders that adequate security measures would be put in place to ensure a peaceful and orderly celebration.
While granting approval, the state issued strict conditions for participants. It directed that all public roads must remain open, warning against any form of road blockage or obstruction of vehicular and pedestrian movement during the festival.
It also prohibited masquerades and participants from carrying or displaying dangerous weapons, stressing that no form of harassment, intimidation, flogging, or violence against road users would be tolerated.
The government urged all celebrants to conduct themselves responsibly and ensure the festival reflects the cultural values and heritage of the Awka people.
Finally, it congratulated the traditional ruler and the people of Awka on the occasion, encouraging them to ensure a peaceful, orderly, and dignified celebration.
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