The Ga Traditional Council has called on authorities to halt the planned Igbo New Yam Festival scheduled for Sunday, September 21, 2025, at the Efua Sutherland Children’s Park in Accra.
In a formal letter signed by Registrar Evelyn Amewotse, the Council warned that allowing the celebration to go ahead could undermine peace and security within the Ga State.
The festival, which is being organized by Eze Dr. Amb. Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu under the theme “2025 Ibo Day in Ghana – New Yam Festival,” is a major cultural event for Ghana’s Igbo community.
It has been celebrated annually for more than a decade, typically attracting dignitaries from Ghana and Nigeria.
Despite its long history, the Ga Traditional Council says the event breaches its July 9, 2025, directive cautioning Eze Ihenetu against introducing Igbo traditional rites and festivals within Ga land without prior consultation.
“HRM King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II has directed me to write to inform you and also seek your assistance by putting the above programme to a halt as soon as possible,” the registrar’s letter stated.
The New Yam Festival, known as Iri Ji, is a globally observed Igbo tradition marking the end of the farming season. It features rituals, yam feasts, traditional music, and masquerade dances.
The Ga Traditional Council maintains that its objection is not against the Igbo community but aimed at preserving the cultural sovereignty of the Ga State and preventing potential clashes.
Authorities are now under pressure to mediate between the council and the Igbo community to ensure that cultural celebrations do not escalate into conflict in Accra’s already diverse and sensitive metropolitan environment.
Source: Adomonline
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