By Karen James
In a bid to strengthen agricultural development and foster community engagement, the Majority Leader of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Hon. Ikenna Ofodeme, organized a town hall meeting for his constituents in Ichi, Ekwusigo Local Government Area. The event, which took place at Ofodeme’s compound, was marked by the distribution of improved seedlings to farmers and a vibrant celebration of the traditional New Yam Festival (Iwa Ji).
Hon. Ofodeme, who represents Ekwusigo constituency, used the occasion to thank his constituents for their unwavering support. He highlighted his numerous legislative achievements, noting that several bills he sponsored have been passed into law. He also praised Ekwusigo for being the most peaceful local government in Anambra State, calling on stakeholders to partner with the government to drive urbanization in the area.
Ofodeme emphasized the cultural importance of the New Yam Festival, expressing gratitude for a bountiful harvest and urging the people of Anambra to preserve Igbo traditions. “Upholding our rich cultural heritage is crucial to ensuring it does not fade into extinction,” he said.
Key dignitaries, including Anambra Commissioner for Agriculture Hon. Foster Ihejiofor and Housing Commissioner Hon. Pauly Onyeka, lauded Ofodeme’s commitment to supporting Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s agricultural policies. They commended the lawmaker for empowering farmers through the provision of high-quality seedlings and encouraged beneficiaries to utilize the resources effectively to boost food production in the state.
Hon. Jude Akpua, Deputy Majority Leader of the State House of Assembly, praised Ofodeme’s active role in the legislature, noting his success in sponsoring and passing significant bills. He called on the community to continue backing Ofodeme as he works to deliver positive change.
Transition Committee Chairman of Ekwusigo LGA, Hon. Chimezie Obi, credited Ofodeme with maintaining peace and security in the region. He praised the lawmaker for providing the local community with a robust security network and vowed to support his future initiatives.
Presidents-General from various communities, including Ozubulu, Oraifite, and Ichi, hailed the town hall as an unprecedented milestone in Ekwusigo. They applauded both Governor Soludo and Hon. Ofodeme for their leadership and development efforts.
The high point of the event was the ceremonial distribution of improved seedlings to constituents, followed by the Iwa Ji proper, symbolizing the community’s gratitude for the harvest. Traditional masquerade performances added vibrant energy to the gathering, further highlighting the rich cultural heritage of the Igbo people.
