“In an important announcement, the throne of the Traditional Ruler of Akwuukwu Community in Idemili South LGA, Anambra State has been declared vacant.
This declaration comes after the community came together to celebrate the last offala for the Late Igwe Thomas Offorkaja (Ijilija 1 of Akwuukwu) after almost three decades.
The official declaration was made by the Spokesman, Nze na Ozo Akwuukwu, Ogbuefi Chief Nnamdi Ejimbe (Nnanyelugo), opening the way for the selection and election of a new Igwe.
The offala festival was a grand affair, with traditional rulers, spirits, and masquerades joining the people of Umu Akwuukwu from both near and far to bid farewell to the late monarch on his journey to the afterlife.
During the event, the Anambra State Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment, and Tourism, Don Onyenji, highlighted the meticulous preparations made by the Akwuukwu community for the last offala of their late Igwe. In Igbo tradition, it is believed that until the funeral ceremony of a deceased person takes place, they may not reach their final destination in the afterlife.
“Today, you can witness the last offala of Igwe Ijikala 1 of Akwuukwu in our own style. Traditional rulers came in numbers. There are Masquerade displays, women dance troupes, and plenty of feasting and merriment. Whether it’s the first, second, or last offala, the essence remains the same. The difference lies in the person currently on the throne, who dresses and dances the traditional dances in the same manner as the late Igwe,” said Commissioner Onyenji.
The last offala holds great significance in the Akwuukwu community, as it paves the way for the enthronement of a new leader. Exciting times lie ahead as the process of selecting and electing a new Igwe begins
