A Royal Farewell: Ifite-Anam Set to Celebrate the Final Ofala of HRM Igwe Sylvester Udalor Nnose
In the quiet, culturally rich community of Ifite-Anam, nestled within Anambra West Local Government Area of Anambra State, a wave of tradition, reverence, and celebration is sweeping through the land. The reason is both monumental and emotional: the people of Ifite-Anam are preparing to bid a final royal farewell to their esteemed traditional ruler, His Royal Majesty, Igwe Sylvester Udalor Nnose, fondly known as Ezediebube, Ezeanasoluanya, Igwe Odogwu of Ifite Anam.
The date is set. On the 22nd of April, 2025, the town will host the Final Ofala Festival of Igwe Nnose — a grand cultural ceremony symbolizing the last public homage to a revered monarch who ruled with wisdom, dignity, and a commitment to peace. The Mmiata Anam Primary School Field, now decorated and transformed into a majestic arena of tradition, will serve as the venue for this historic gathering.
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According to a formal statement signed by Ofodile Cyprian Chukwujekwu (President General, Ifite-Anam), Prince Dr. Egbunike Sylvester Nnose (Akuenwebe), and Prince Ndidi Nnose (Afunwa), preparations are in top gear. The organizers have extended a warm invitation to all sons and daughters of Ifite-Anam, neighboring communities in Anambra West, and the general public, urging them to join in celebrating a life and reign that shaped their community.
Born into the royal lineage of the Nnose family, Igwe Sylvester Udalor Nnose ascended the throne at a time when Ifite-Anam, like many communities in Anambra, was grappling with the pressures of modernization, rural development, and the need to preserve cultural identity. His leadership style was marked by wisdom, accessibility, and a profound commitment to peacebuilding among clans and with neighboring communities.
Known affectionately as Ezediebube — “The King That is a Glory” — and Ezeanasoluanya — “The King Whose Path is Righteous” — he was a monarch deeply loved and revered. But it was the title Igwe Odogwu — “The Fearless King” — that captured his legendary courage in defending his people’s interest and fostering unity.
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Over the decades, Igwe Nnose’s palace became a hub for conflict resolution, cultural revival, and socio-political dialogue. He led his people not only through the ceremonial duties of kingship but also through critical developmental efforts, working with town unions, government agencies, and traditional councils to attract infrastructure and social services to Ifite-Anam.
The Ofala is more than a celebration — it is a spiritual and communal reaffirmation of kingship in Igbo tradition. It marks the annual emergence of the monarch from sacred seclusion, where he engages in spiritual rites for the protection and prosperity of his kingdom. In the case of the Final Ofala, it represents a once-in-a-lifetime closure of that royal cycle — a definitive, solemn, yet festive send-off to a king whose earthly reign has come to an end.
As such, the April 22 event is not merely an ordinary festival. It is both a cultural crescendo and a historical moment. Traditional musicians, dancers, masquerades (mmuo), and age-grade associations are expected to perform in colorful unison, showcasing the vibrant heritage of Ifite-Anam. The Igwe’s cabinet members, the Elders in Council, and various village heads are collaborating to ensure that the Final Ofala embodies the richness of Igbo customs and the nobility of their late king.
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In the weeks leading to the Final Ofala, Ifite-Anam has been a beehive of activity. Local artisans are building stages and arches, women’s groups are rehearsing folk songs, and community youth are organizing security and logistics. Cultural troops from across Anambra West and beyond have confirmed their participation. Lodges and guest houses in the surrounding areas are already experiencing a surge in bookings, as visitors, dignitaries, and cultural enthusiasts prepare to witness history.
“We are not mourning; we are celebrating a great man,” said Prince Dr. Egbunike Sylvester Nnose, one of the king’s sons and a member of the planning committee. “My father was a bridge builder. His Ofala is not just for us in Ifite-Anam — it is for the entire Igbo nation to honor one of her custodians of tradition.”
Ofodile Cyprian Chukwujekwu, the President General, echoed the sentiment: “We want to show the world how much our people loved and respected our Igwe. This Ofala is our gift to his memory and our way of saying thank you.”
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The Final Ofala is expected to draw traditional rulers from across Anambra State and the South East. Delegations from neighboring towns, state government representatives, cultural organizations, and the clergy are also anticipated. According to organizers, the programme will feature:
One of the most anticipated moments is the Iwa Ji (New Yam symbolic presentation) which, although usually held during the annual festival, will be included in this Final Ofala to symbolize abundance and the continuity of life.
Igwe Nnose’s reign is remembered not only for his devotion to cultural preservation but also for his advocacy for youth empowerment, education, and communal harmony. He played a pivotal role in resolving land disputes that once threatened to divide the community. He also facilitated the rehabilitation of rural roads, lobbied for the establishment of primary health centers, and supported scholarships for indigent students.
Beyond Ifite-Anam, he was known for his principled stance on issues affecting the Anambra West region, often speaking at state functions about the need to bridge the development gap between riverine and upland areas.
“He believed in justice,” said Chief Chukwuemeka Okonkwo, a member of the Elders Council. “Whether it was a farmer’s complaint or a youth matter, the Igwe would sit and listen. He made us feel that our voice mattered.”
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As the festival draws near, residents are reflecting on their encounters with the Igwe. For many, the Final Ofala is a personal journey of gratitude and healing.
“I remember when my son got injured and we needed to raise funds. The Igwe came to our compound quietly and gave us everything we needed,” said Mama Uju Nwakego, a widow from Umuobasi. “He didn’t want us to announce it. That’s the kind of king he was.”
Others recall his deep sense of humility.
“He walked through the market square like everyone else, greeting people by name. He ate at local joints and laughed with the youths. It didn’t matter that he wore the crown,” said Chijioke Anene, a local trader.
The Final Ofala of HRM Sylvester Udalor Nnose will not only honor his legacy but also serve as a cultural bridge to the future. The next phase for Ifite-Anam will likely include the emergence of a successor — a process that involves consultations, traditions, and community consensus.
Yet, for now, the people are focused on the task at hand: honoring the past, celebrating the present, and preparing for a future illuminated by the values their Igwe stood for.
“This is the final bow of a great cultural custodian,” said Chief Nwafor Obidike, a town union elder. “It is also a call to our people — to continue the work of peace, dignity, and cultural pride.”
As April 22 approaches, Ifite-Anam is ready to welcome the world. The drums will beat, the flutes will sing, the masquerades will dance, and the people — sons and daughters, young and old — will gather in unity. It will be a day to remember, not for its sadness, but for its celebration of life, service, and royalty.
In the words of one of the festival songs already echoing through the village:
“Igwe anyi zulu ike, Igwe anyi jee n’udo, N’olu ya dị anyị mma, Ka anyị kwado Ofala ikpeazụ!”
(Our king has rested, Our king goes in peace, His work was good for us, Let us prepare for his final Ofala!)