The highly anticipated Igbo Day and New Yam Festival, scheduled for Sunday, September 21, 2025, in Accra, has been cancelled following a directive from the Ga Mantse, Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuru II.
The traditional ruler of the Gã State petitioned the Greater Accra Regional Police, expressing concerns that the event, organised by the Igbo community leader Eze Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu, could incite chaos and disturb public peace. This request references a prior July 9 directive that ordered Eze Ihenetu to refrain from cultural activities deemed to be importing Igbo traditions into the Ga State.
The festival, which was promoted online with invitations and videos, was planned to take place at the Efua Sutherland Children’s Park under the theme “Sustaining the culture and traditions of Ndigbo in the diaspora.”
This cancellation marks the second public setback for Eze Ihenetu in recent days. Earlier in the week, a viral TikTok video showed him being prevented by a linguist from shaking the hand of the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, during the funeral of the Asantehemaa on September 17. The incident sparked significant discussion on social media, with many users supporting the linguist’s actions.
The police have yet to make an official public statement, but the event is now on hold indefinitely pending further review.
Ayo Sogbuyi is a seasoned journalist with over 30 years of experience, he is a passionate advocate for press freedom and ethical reporting. Throughout his career, he has covered significant global events and championed the role of journalism in holding power to account.