Imo Awka Festival Draws Crowds as Masquerades Take Over Streets in Celebration of Culture
By Nonye Muo
Awka, the capital of Anambra State, came alive with colour, music, and cultural excitement as residents and visitors thronged the streets to witness the annual Imo Awka Festival, one of the community’s most celebrated traditional events.
The festival, which took place along Zik’s Avenue and other major roads within the town, featured colourful masquerade displays, cultural processions, traditional music, and dancing, attracting large crowds from different walks of life.
Men, women, youths, and children lined the streets under canopies and along roadways to watch the performances, while traders and visitors joined in the festivities. The celebration showcased various cultural displays as masquerades moved from one part of the town to another, accompanied by drummers and followers dressed in traditional attire.
Young men and boys carrying canes locally known as “agba” or “anachu” were also seen playfully striking one another as part of the age-long tradition, although women were not involved in the practice.
Speaking on the significance of the festival, an indigene of Awka, Mr. Chukwudi Nnebe, described the celebration as a symbol of unity and cultural identity for the people.
“This festival reminds us of our heritage and brings our people together every year. It is something we are proud of,” he said.
Another resident, Mrs. Ngozi Ezeh, noted that the celebration creates joy and offers people an opportunity to relax and socialize.
“You can see many people outside today enjoying themselves and laughing,” she noted.
Visitors and non-indigenes expressed admiration for the rich cultural heritage on display during the festival.
Miss Esther Nwosu, a visitor from Asaba, said she was impressed by the colourful displays and the energy of the participants.
“This is my first time attending the Imo Awka Festival, and I am amazed by the energy, culture, and crowd. The masquerades are beautiful and entertaining,” she said.
Also speaking, Ibrahim Musa, who has lived in Awka for several years, described the festival as a unifying event that brings together people of different ethnic and religious backgrounds.
“Everybody comes out to enjoy it regardless of tribe or religion. That is one thing I like about Awka,” he said.
Despite the festive atmosphere, some residents and business owners reportedly stayed indoors over concerns about possible unrest. However, security operatives were seen monitoring activities across the town to maintain law and order throughout the celebration.
The Imo Awka Festival is traditionally celebrated by the people of Awka to preserve their customs, promote indigenous heritage, and strengthen community bonding.
Among the popular masquerades featured during the celebration were Igariga and Akwunechenyi, both of which thrilled spectators with dramatic performances and cultural displays.
More photos below.
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