As the 2027 general elections draws closer, the Ndi Igbo People’s Forum has charged its members to vote for only credible candidates.
The Forum also called for the preservation of Igbo cultural heritage and the strengthening of the organisation.
President of the forum, Chief Nnamdi Onyia, made the call during the fourth edition of the New Yam Festival, popularly known as Iri Ji Ndigbo, held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The event brought together members, executive officers, Board of Trustees (BoT) members and traditional title holders to celebrate Igbo culture, give thanks for a successful harvest and pray for prosperity in the coming year.
Addressing members on the forthcoming elections, Onyia urged them to carefully consider the candidates seeking their votes and make informed choices.
“As we all know, the general election is coming up next year. I will urge my people to keep focused, also follow our instinct and our mind. We have seen how the country is. Let us vote for a credible candidate,” he said.
Onyia described the New Yam Festival as an enduring Igbo tradition that promotes thanksgiving and unity while connecting the people to their cultural roots.
He said, “What we are doing today is significant for us to appreciate the God of yam and our God for the bountiful harvest. We are appreciating our ancestors, our Chi, for giving us a great harvest.”
He noted that although many Igbo people had diversified into commerce, manufacturing and other professions, the festival remained relevant, with members also celebrating the achievements and profits recorded in their respective fields as a form of harvest.
“Whatever you are doing, let’s come together as one during the harvesting time to use that gift, that profit we made from our different professions, as our own profit from the yam barn to celebrate the Lord,” he said.
The forum president added that the celebration provided an opportunity to pray for business expansion, career advancement, new partnerships and other opportunities for members in the coming year.
He also urged members to remain committed to the organisation’s objectives, charging the newly elected executive to strengthen its structures and work for the collective interests of members.
Onyia highlighted the significance of the Ogbuefi title, which recognises individuals for their contributions to the organisation and the wider community, noting that the honour reflects the values of service and commitment.
He further stressed the importance of the Board of Trustees, describing it as a vital institution for providing guidance, stability and continuity within the forum.
The highlight of the festival was the ceremonial cutting of the new yam, during which title holders performed the ritual on behalf of their respective households and made monetary offerings.
The ceremony symbolised thanksgiving for the harvest and prayers for a fruitful season, reflecting the importance of yam in Igbo culture and traditional life.
The celebration also featured cultural displays, traditional attire, ornaments and songs, as participants showcased their heritage.
