Anambra Govt okays Imo Awka Festival, bans masquerades from carrying dangerous weapons
Anambra State Approves Imo Awka Festival Amid Security Concerns
The Anambra State government has authorized the celebration of the Imo Awka Festival on May 23, 2026, following earlier calls for a date change due to a clash with primary elections for the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), the state’s ruling party.
Initially, officials expressed concerns about the overlap of two significant events on the same day, suggesting that it would be impractical to allocate security resources for both. The festival, an important cultural event for the Awka people, honors the god of fertility and purification.
In a letter from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, signed by Commissioner Udorji Amedu, the government confirmed that the festival could proceed. The letter was addressed to the President General of the Awka Development Union and included copies sent to His Royal Highness, Gibson Nwosu, the traditional ruler of Awka, and members of the Ozo Awka Society.
While granting approval, the ministry stipulated several conditions. Participants must conduct themselves respectfully and refrain from blocking major roads during the festivities. Additionally, masquerades and other celebrants are prohibited from carrying dangerous weapons.
The letter emphasized the need for order during the festival, stating, “Having received strong written assurances from the leadership of the Awka Development Union Nigeria and Ozo Awka Society that they will provide additional security and ensure that the Imo-Awka Festival…will be celebrated in an orderly manner,” the government approved the celebration.
The state government outlined specific directives for the event. These include a requirement that public roads remain unobstructed to facilitate the movement of citizens and a ban on any form of harassment, intimidation, or violence by participants.
The government commended His Royal Highness, Igwe Gibson Nwosu, and the Awka community, encouraging them to celebrate the festival in a manner that reflects their cultural values.
