The leadership of Ndi Ezeji Mbaise has issued a stern caution to members of Ezuruezu Mbaise, warning them to stay away from the annual Iri Ji Mbaise festival or risk invoking the wrath of the gods.
Speaking at a press briefing in Owerri, President General Ezeji Livinus Nwajere accused Ezuruezu Mbaise, led by Surveyor Joe Anosike, of usurping the traditional responsibilities of Ndi Ezeji. He stressed that Ezuruezu has never presided over the festival in its history.
According to Nwajere, Ndi Ezeji are the custodians of the sacred rites: performing the yam ban dance, lifting the yam ban, receiving the Governor, welcoming the public, and cutting the roasted yam for distribution.
He alleged that Ezuruezu’s interference has “turned the culture upside down,” warning that such actions could bring curses upon Mbaise.
Nwajere further accused Ezuruezu of violating traditional laws by presenting market-bought yams as Mbaise yams, describing the act as a sacrilege.
“The gods must be appeased,” he declared, noting that even the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 did not halt the festival, underscoring its cultural resilience.
He lamented what he called Ezuruezu’s continuous neglect of Ndi Ezeji since 2024, despite repeated attempts to reconcile. “Ezuruezu cannot perform Ahiajoku rites, and therefore they are not qualified to organise Iri Ji Mbaise,” he insisted.
Nwajere announced that all traditional rites for the 2026 festival will take place on August 15 at Isi Ovu Eke Nguru, Mbaise.
Adding his voice, Ezeji Onyekachi Nwoga highlighted the festival’s importance, describing Iri Ji Mbaise as “the highest yam festival in Igboland.”
He revealed plans to organise lectures to educate younger generations on its history and cultural significance.
