Media Team
Tempers are flaring in Okon Aku, a community in Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State, following the prohibition of the annual Iri-Ji (New Yam) festival by the Okon Aku Traditional Herbs and Roots practitioners, also known as Dibia Okon-Aku. The event, planned for Saturday, September 20, has sparked controversy after authorities ordered its cancellation.
The herbalists, decrying the move as a violation of their rights, have pledged to challenge the ban, asserting their entitlement to cultural and religious freedom under the law.
In a formal petition sent to the traditional leader, HRH Eze Ndukwe Iko, and forwarded to Governor Alex Otti along with security agencies, the group—represented by their legal counsel, N.B. Kalu, Esq.—demanded the immediate revocation of the prohibition.
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They maintain that the restriction infringes on Sections 38 and 40 of the 1999 Constitution, which protect freedom of worship and association.
The dispute reportedly stemmed from the exclusion of one member, Chief Uche Ikenga, from the festival—a decision the herbalists claim was arbitrary. They argue that the broader ban followed their refusal to ostracize Ikenga without justification.
According to the practitioners, prior attempts to disrupt their initial festival on September 16, 2025, involved threats of arrest. They also noted that their association is legally registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).
“These acts of intimidation contradict Nigeria’s secular principles, where no group should impose its beliefs on others,” the petition stated.
The group urged the Abia State Government and security forces to probe the ban’s legality, oversee the festival to prevent violence, and ensure their safety. While committing to peaceful observance, they threatened legal recourse if suppression persists.
Eze Ndukwe Iko, the traditional ruler, justified the ban by citing security risks. He accused the native doctors of enforcing a month-long curfew, which he deemed unconstitutional.
“The prohibition was a preemptive measure. The herbalists imposed a curfew, disrupting daily life. The council of elders resolved to halt the festival to avoid potential clashes—especially between Christians and traditional practitioners,” he explained.
He referenced past tensions that nearly turned violent, emphasizing, “They must respect the community’s peace. Their activities, if necessary, should remain private.”
