Iriji Mbaise: Celebrating A Dying Tradition

[Shola Sholaz]

IRIJI MBAISE, one of the very rooted festivals for which Igbos in general and the Mbaise clans in particular are known is celebrated annually on August 15. Celebrated during the harvest season, this festival is set aside as a thanksgiving to God for a good harvest and offering of prayers for better ones in the seasons ahead.
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Of all crops in Igboland, yam is king and most revered.
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Over the years, Iriji Mbaise has become an international event witnessed by sons and daughters of Mbaise and their friends at home and abroad.
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However, in recent times, it has taken more of the status of a political event, thus relegating its essence – socio-culture, economy, spirituality, morality and tradition – to the background.
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One of the highlights of this event is the presentation of kola nut and subsequent visit (to the extent that time permits) to all clans, towns/villages and even to kindreds in order of seniority.