The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Oshimili South Local Government Area, Ogbueshi Dada Okolo (Igwe Omenife), has felicitated with the Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Asagba (Prof.) Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, SAN, OON, FCIArb, LL.D (HC), FILA, KSJI, KSG, on the occasion of the 2026 Iwaji Festival.
Okolo, who conveyed the goodwill on behalf of the leaders and members of the APC, Anya Asagba na Ajaji Layout, described the annual Iwaji celebration as a significant cultural and spiritual occasion that reflects the rich heritage, unity and gratitude of the people of Asaba.
In a goodwill message issued by the Oshimili South APC Media, Okolo said Iwaji was more than a festival, describing it as “the thanksgiving of a people, the prayer of a King for his kingdom, and a sacred reminder that no matter how far we travel, our roots remain our pride.”
He noted that the festival provides an opportunity for the Asagba to perform the traditional rites associated with the new yam, taste the new harvest and symbolically extend blessings to farmers, traders, women, youths and residents of Asaba.
The APC chairman also commended the Asagba for what he described as his distinguished leadership since ascending the traditional throne, noting that the monarch had continued to combine intellectual excellence with tradition and a strong commitment to the wellbeing and unity of his people.
According to him, “Since you ascended the throne of your ancestors, you have brought royalty with intellect, tradition with grace, and leadership with a deep love for your people. You have not merely worn the crown; you have elevated it.”
Okolo further described the Asagba as a unifying traditional ruler and a source of inspiration to the people, praying for divine guidance, wisdom, good health, long life and peace for the monarch as he performs the sacred Iwaji rites at the Palace on Thursday, September 17, 2026.
He also prayed that the new yam season would usher in abundant harvests, prosperity, peace and unity for families across Asaba and Anioma land.
“May your reign continue to be fruitful, just like the yam you bless,” Okolo said.
He concluded the message with prayers for the continued prosperity of Asaba Kingdom and the enduring reign of the Asagba.
