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to be Jews elicits strong criticism. One critic, Catherine Acholonu, attributes Jewish identification among the Igbo as a result of Christianity brought by missionaries, since most Igbo people are Christians.
“Everybody is excited to say they belong to the people of the Bible because the Bible is reigning – it’s in,” says Acholonu, a prominent researcher on Igbo history and culture.
Everybody is excited to say they belong to the people of the Bible because the Bible is reigning – it’s in.
Catherine Acholonu
In her award-winning book “They Lived Before Adam” Acholonu proposes that Igbo civilization is older than that of the Israelites.
She feels that Igbo people are whitewashing their history and diminishing the value of their own culture by attempting to link their heritage to the Jews.
PETER AGBAI, who says he is a “proud Igbo man,” strongly disagrees.
He started practicing Judaism in 1991 after leaving the Methodist church. He says that the more he followed the commandments in the Torah, the more he realized that he was doing what his parents had always done as followers of traditional Igbo culture and spirituality.
“I have seen that the traditions of our people are similar to those in the Bible,” says the 66-year-old, making references to aspects like ritual bathing and polygamy.
Agbai is one of the founders of the Ghihon synagogue. He plays an important role as a spiritual leader in Abuja’s community of Igbo Jews. He attended Abor’s bar mitzvah last year, an experience that Abor says made him feel like a man, and feel closer to the Jewish culture.He wants to go deeper into Orthodox Judaism and take a pilgrimage to the Holy Land.
“I want to live in Israel,” Abor says. He hopes that there, he will get a better understanding of his forefathers.
FORTHY DAY OF YAMS FESTIVAL AT OKLAHOMA STATE IN NIGERIA.
The forth day was the breaking of kola in Igbo land kola was very important in yam festival, it was annual festival in Igbo land, Omawo the priest will appeal to gods before the breaking of kola after the talk about important of communication in business and how to make money. The important of communication is Vita in business and Language was part of Igbo business secrets. popular musician from Lagos like Flavour and Davido perform at the end of breaking kola. all the villagers was very happy, the whole community was happy after the breaking of kola in Oklahoma state home.
On the forty day of the yam festival at Oklahoma State in Nigeria, the entire village was abuzz with excitement and anticipation. The festival had been a time-honored tradition in Igbo land for generations, celebrating the harvest of the precious yam crop that sustained the community throughout the year.
As the sun rose over the lush green landscape, villagers began to gather in the central square, adorned in colorful traditional attire. Women wore brightly patterned wrappers and headscarves, while men draped themselves in intricately woven cloth and beaded jewelry. The air was filled with the scent of cooking fires and the sound of drumbeats, setting the stage for a day of joyous celebration.
At the heart of the festivities stood Omawo, the revered high priest of the village. As the spiritual leader of the community, it was his duty to lead the ceremonies and rituals that marked the yam festival. Omawo was a man of great wisdom and strength, his presence commanding respect and admiration from all who knew him.
Before the breaking of the kola nut, a sacred symbol of unity and blessings, Omawo addressed the gathered crowd. His voice was strong and clear, carrying across the square as he spoke of the importance of communication in business and the secrets of success in the Igbo world. He spoke of the power of language, of the ways in which words could build bridges between people and create opportunities for prosperity.
As Omawo concluded his speech, the time had come for the breaking of the kola nut. With a solemn expression, he lifted the nut high above his head, offering prayers to the gods for their favor and guidance. The crowd watched in rapt attention as Omawo struck the nut, the sound echoing through the square like a gunshot.
With a deft hand, Omawo divided the kola nut into pieces, distributing them among the villagers as a symbol of unity and goodwill. Each person received a piece of the nut, their faces lighting up with joy and gratitude. The air was filled with the sound of laughter and music, as the villagers celebrated the blessings of the harvest and the bonds of community that held them together.
As the day wore on, the village came alive with activity. Market stalls sprung up selling handmade crafts and delicious local delicacies, while traditional dancers twirled and leaped to the beat of the drums. Children ran through the streets, their laughter filling the air as they played games and chased each other in the warm sunshine.
In the evening, a special treat awaited the villagers: a performance by popular musicians from Lagos. The crowd gathered around a makeshift stage, their faces glowing with excitement as the musicians took the spotlight. Flavour’s soulful voice filled the air, his songs weaving a spell of love and longing that touched the hearts of all who listened.
As the music continued, Davido took the stage, his infectious energy lighting up the night. The crowd danced and sang along, their voices raised in joyful celebration. It was a night of magic and wonder, a moment of pure joy and togetherness that would be remembered for years to come.
As the final notes of the music faded into the night, the villagers made their way home, their hearts full of happiness and gratitude. The yam festival had been a time of renewal and connection, a celebration of the gifts of the earth and the bonds of community that united them all. And as they drifted off to sleep, visions of yam fields and dancing shadows filled their dreams, a testament to the power of tradition and the beauty of their homeland.
Chidi and joy enjoying every bit of yam festival in Oklahoma city at Oklahoma state Nigeria. they eat different types of localy made foods, they drink palm wine and other localy made drinks. other Village was happy to see their old friends from secondary school and other new friends from other part of country.
Everyone compound introduce their family to each other because some people came home for the first time, it's was very happy mood at Oklahoma city
In the small village of Oklahoma City in the heart of Oklahoma state on fourth day of yams festival, Nigeria, came alive with the vibrant colors and sounds of the Yam Festival. This was a time for the community to come together and celebrate the abundance of the yam harvest, a staple crop that sustained them throughout the year.
Chidi and Joy were two childhood friends who had grown up in Oklahoma City. They had been inseparable since their days at secondary school, and every year they looked forward to the Yam Festival with great anticipation. This year was no different, as they made their way to the village square, their mouths watering at the thought of all the delicious food that awaited them.
As they entered the square, they were greeted by the enticing smell of roasted yams, fried plantains, and spicy pepper soup. The vendors had set up their stalls, each one offering a tantalizing array of local delicacies. Chidi and Joy wasted no time in sampling everything in sight, their taste buds tingling with delight.
Their first stop was at Mama Nkechi's stall, where they devoured a plate of pounded yam and egusi soup. They washed it down with glasses of palm wine, the sweet taste of the alcoholic drink warming their insides. Next, they tried some suya, skewers of grilled meat seasoned with spicy peppers and served with slices of fresh onions and tomatoes. Chidi and Joy could hardly contain their excitement as they savored the smoky, savory flavors of the meat.
As they walked around the square, they ran into old friends from their secondary school days. Laughter and hugs were exchanged as they caught up on each other's lives. Some of their friends had brought their families with them, introducing wives, husbands, and children to Chidi and Joy. It was heartwarming to see how everyone had grown and changed over the years, yet the bonds of friendship remained as strong as ever.
The sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the festivities. The villagers gathered around a bonfire, the flames crackling and dancing in the cool night air. Drummers beat out a rhythm, urging the crowd to dance and celebrate. Joy joined in, her hips swaying to the music, her laughter ringing out in pure joy. Chidi watched her with admiration, his heart filling with happiness at the sight of his dear friend so carefree and alive.
As the night wore on, more and more people arrived in Oklahoma City to join in the festivities. Visitors from neighboring villages and even from other parts of the country mingled with the locals, sharing stories and laughter. The atmosphere was one of pure joy and camaraderie, as strangers became friends over shared plates of food and glasses of palm wine.
Chidi and Joy found themselves at the center of it all, surrounded by a circle of friends, old and new. They laughed and danced, their hearts full of gratitude for the bonds of friendship that held them together. The Yam Festival was a time of magic and wonder, a time when the village came alive with the spirit of community and love.
As the night drew to a close, Chidi and Joy sat by the bonfire, their bellies full and their hearts light. They gazed up at the stars twinkling in the night sky, feeling a sense of peace and contentment wash over them. They knew that no matter where life took them, they would always have the memories of the Yam Festival to hold dear in their hearts.
And so, in the small village of Oklahoma City, amidst the sounds of drums and laughter, Chidi and Joy basked in the warmth of friendship and tradition, grateful for the magic of the Yam Festival that brought them together year after year.
ON THE FIFTH DAY OF YAMS FESTIVAL AT OKLAHOMA CITY AT OKLAHOMA STATE IN FAR EASTERN PARTS OF NIGERIA
On the fiftieth day of the Yam Festival in Oklahoma City in the eastern part of Nigeria, the streets were filled with music, dancing, and excitement as the people eagerly awaited the grand opening ceremony. Ohanize, the king of Oklahoma, stood proudly at the center of the city square, his regal attire shimmering in the afternoon sun. As the crowd hushed in anticipation, he raised his hand and declared the festival officially open.
The new chief, a wealthy man by the name of Mr. Okafor Peter, stood beside his wife, both adorned in traditional attire befitting their new titles. They were called to the front by Ohanize, who beamed with pride as he handed them their chief titles. The couple bowed deeply before the king, their faces glowing with gratitude and humility.
Omawo, the chief priest of Oklahoma, stepped forward, his eyes gleaming with an otherworldly light. He raised his hands to the sky and began to chant, invoking the blessings of the gods upon the new chiefs. The air crackled with energy as colorful sparks of magic danced around the couple, filling them with strength and wisdom.
The crowd erupted into cheers and applause as the ceremony reached its climax, the sun casting a golden halo around the newly appointed chiefs. Mr. Okafor Peter and his wife basked in the glow of their newfound status, their hearts full of joy and gratitude.
After the blessings were complete, the new chief declared a feast to celebrate their appointment. Tables groaned under the weight of sumptuous dishes, overflowing with yams, plantains, and savory meats. Palm wine flowed freely, its sweet aroma mingling with the laughter and chatter of the guests.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm orange glow over the city, Mr. Okafor Peter stood and raised his glass in a toast. His voice, though soft, carried across the gathering, bringing a hush to the crowd.
My dear friends and fellow citizens of Oklahoma, he began, his eyes shining with sincerity. I am truly honored to be appointed as your new chief. I promise to serve you with honesty and integrity, and to always work for the betterment of our community.
A murmur of agreement rippled through the crowd, their faces alight with hope and pride. Mr. Okafor Peter smiled and continued, In honor of this auspicious occasion, I would like to announce that I will be offering scholarships to two deserving young men in our city. Education is the key to our future, and it is my hope that this will help pave the way for a brighter tomorrow.
The crowd erupted into cheers and applause, the sound echoing through the streets and mingling with the music and laughter of the festival. Mr. Okafor Peter and his wife were lifted onto the shoulders of the jubilant crowd, carried through the streets in a procession of joy and celebration.
As the stars twinkled overhead and the music faded into the night, the people of Oklahoma City felt a sense of unity and hope fill their hearts. The new chief had brought prosperity and generosity to their city, and they knew that under his leadership, their future was brighter than ever before.
And so, as the yams ripened in the fields and the palm wine flowed freely, the people of Oklahoma City danced into the night, their spirits soaring on the wings of magic and possibility. The fiftieth day of the Yam Festival would forever be remembered as a day of joy, abundance, and new beginnings.
The sun rose over the bustling streets of the eastern part of Nigeria, casting a warm glow over the colorful festivities. The air was filled with the sound of drums beating and laughter, as the people of Oklahoma City gathered to celebrate the harvest and honor their traditions.
As the crowd waited eagerly, Ohanize, the king of Oklahoma, stepped forward to officially open the festival. Dressed in elaborate traditional robes, his presence commanded respect and admiration from all who watched. With a wave of his hand, he declared that the time had come for the new chief to be appointed and announced.
Mr. Okafor Peter, a well-respected businessman in the community, stood proudly by his wife as they were called to the front of the crowd. With a mix of excitement and anticipation, they awaited the blessings of the gods from Omawo, the chief priest of Oklahoma. The ceremony was a sight to behold, as the priest chanted ancient prayers and showered the couple with sacred herbs and incantations.
After being blessed for over an hour, Mr. Okafor Peter and his wife were officially given their new chief titles, a moment that filled their hearts with joy and gratitude. As they embraced their new roles, the crowd erupted into cheers and applause, celebrating the couple's new position of honor in the community.
As the sun began to set, the new chief invited the people of Oklahoma City to his residence for a grand feast. Surplus foods and palm wine flowed freely, along with an array of international wines that had been specially imported for the occasion. The streets were alive with music and dancing, as the people feasted and celebrated long into the night.
The generosity of the new chief did not go unnoticed, as word spread quickly throughout the city. Mr. Okafor Peter was known for his immense wealth and charitable deeds, and the community was grateful for his kindness and willingness to give back to those in need.
In a touching speech, the new chief announced that he would be offering scholarships to two young men in the community, a gesture that brought tears to the eyes of many. His words were filled with hope and promise, inspiring the youth of Oklahoma City to strive for greatness and never give up on their dreams.
As the festival came to a close, the people of Oklahoma City reflected on the day's events with joy and gratitude in their hearts. The celebration had been a success, thanks to the leadership of their new chief and the blessings of the gods.
In the days that followed, Mr. Okafor Peter and his wife continued to carry out their duties with grace and dignity, earning the respect and admiration of all who knew them. Their generosity and kindness had touched the hearts of the people of Oklahoma City, leaving a lasting impact that would be remembered for years to come.
And so, the fiftieth day of the Yam Festival in Oklahoma City had come to an end, marking a new chapter in the history of the community and the beginning of a bright future under the guidance of their beloved new chief. The spirit of unity and togetherness that had been celebrated that day would continue to thrive, ensuring prosperity and happiness for generations to come.
That day was no sleeping, villagers are very happy because the sixty day is the culture cutting of new yam in the city of Oklahoma for that Year., official DJ will play till day break and after sometime break the people will go and change their clothes into locally made Igbo raper and red top or red raper and white top. with red cap by the chief to prepare for the culture cutting of new yam festival in the city at Oklahoma state..it going to be colorful and onsome that day. the culture cutting of new yam was yearly festival in Igbo land.
In the small village of Oklahoma in the heart of Igbo land, excitement filled the air as the day of the culture cutting of new yam festival approached. This was a yearly tradition that held great significance for the villagers, as it marked the beginning of the harvest season and the prosperity that would come with it.
As the sun rose on that fateful day, the villagers could hardly contain their excitement. They had been preparing for this day for months, and now it was finally here. The official DJ had set up his equipment in the center of the village square, ready to provide the soundtrack for the festivities that would last well into the night.
The village chief had decreed that this year's festival would be bigger and better than ever before, with more food, more music, and more dancing. The villagers had spent weeks weaving new raffia skirts and tops, dyed in vibrant shades of red and white, to wear for the occasion.
As the DJ began to play, the villagers wasted no time in joining together in a joyous celebration. They danced and sang, their voices rising in harmony with the beat of the music. The children ran through the streets, their laughter ringing out like the chimes of a thousand bells.
After some time, the village chief called for a break in the festivities. The villagers obediently filed into their homes to change into their traditional Igbo attire – red raffia skirts and white tops for the women, and red raffia skirts and red tops for the men. They adorned themselves with elaborate beaded necklaces and bracelets, and topped off their outfits with red caps that signified their status in the community.
As the sun began to set, the villagers gathered once more in the village square, their colorful attire glowing in the fading light. The chief stood at the front, a proud smile on his face as he prepared to lead the procession to the yam fields for the culture cutting ceremony.
The villagers followed behind him, their voices raised in song as they made their way through the streets. The air was thick with the scent of incense and burning herbs, a sweet and earthy aroma that filled the senses and stirred the spirit.
As they reached the yam fields, the villagers formed a circle around the carefully tended rows of yam plants. The chief raised his hands, offering a prayer of thanks to the gods for the bountiful harvest that lay before them. He then took a sharp knife and cut into one of the yams, the juice running down his hands in a sticky red stream.
The villagers watched in reverence as he held up the yam, its flesh gleaming in the firelight. The chief declared the harvest blessed, and the villagers cheered in exultation. The culture cutting ceremony was complete, and the festival could now truly begin.
The rest of the night passed in a blur of music and dancing, feasting and storytelling. The villagers ate, drank, and made merry, their hearts full of gratitude for the blessings of the harvest season. As the first light of dawn began to creep over the horizon, the villagers finally began to drift off to sleep, exhausted but content.
The culture cutting of new yam festival in the city of Oklahoma had been a resounding success, a testament to the resilience and spirit of the Igbo people. And as the sun rose on a new day, the villagers knew that they had much to look forward to in the coming year, thanks to the bounty of the land and the strength of their community.
THE SIXTH DAY OF YAM FESTIVAL AT OKLAHOMA CITY IN OKLAHOMA STATE IN FAR EASTERN PARTS OF NIGERIA
The sixth was the real day everyone in Igbo land was waiting for , it's was the special occasion and day in the new year of the land by the gods. its the real day of culture cutting of new yam festival in Oklahoma city. Nobody was in the entirely villiage to eat yam before the culture cutting of yam in Igbo land, anybody eat yams before the culture cutting of new yam will pay high fine to the community. The person will buying all the 7cows, 7 flows, he-goat 7,; kola nut 7, 7 drums of palm wine and 70,000 will be paid to appleals to gods , it's will collected by the chief priest Omawo to do sacrifice to gods.its a taboos in Igbo land . Everyone must come with localy made ibo dress and that day will also be blessed and declare open by chief priest Omawo. after blessing and cutting of new yam by Ohanize, he will declear surplus free foods and drinks. then dancer perform by localy drums and local dancers to entertain the villagers and visitors. Then the closing prayer will be made by high chief of the city of Oklahoma.
On the sixth day of the yam festival in Oklahoma City, the entire village was bustling with excitement and anticipation. The sun rose high in the sky, casting a warm glow over the colorful traditional attire worn by the villagers. The air was filled with the sound of drums beating and children laughing, creating a joyous atmosphere that could be felt by all.
As the day progressed, villagers from near and far began to gather in the village square, eagerly awaiting the arrival of the chief priest Omawo. He was the one who would bless the new yam harvest and officially declare the festival open. The villagers knew that this was a sacred day, a day to honor their ancestors and give thanks for the abundance of the land.
Finally, the chief priest arrived, adorned in elaborate robes and carrying a staff adorned with intricate carvings. The villagers fell silent as he raised his hands to the sky and spoke a prayer of gratitude and blessing. The smell of incense filled the air, mingling with the sweet aroma of newly harvested yams.
After the blessing, it was time for the cutting of the new yam. Ohanize, the village elder, stepped forward with a sharp knife and carefully sliced into the first yam, offering it up to the gods as a symbol of thanksgiving. The crowd erupted in cheers and applause, knowing that this meant the beginning of the feast that would follow.
As the yams were cooked and prepared, the villagers gathered around long wooden tables decorated with colorful cloths and fresh flowers. Plates of steaming yam porridge, fried yam slices, and roasted yam were passed around, along with bowls of spicy palm nut soup and glasses of frothy palm wine.
The villagers ate heartily, savoring the delicious flavors of the newly harvested yams. The air was filled with laughter and conversation, as old friends reconnected and new bonds were formed. The children ran around, playing games and chasing each other, their faces lit up with joy.
As the sun began to set, the drummers and dancers took to the stage, their bodies moving in perfect harmony with the rhythmic beat of the drums. The dancers twirled and leaped, their colorful costumes swirling around them in a mesmerizing display of skill and grace.
The villagers clapped and cheered, their voices rising in a chorus of celebration. It was a sight to behold, a true reflection of the rich cultural heritage of the Igbo people. As the last notes of the drum faded away, the high chief of the city of Oklahoma stepped forward to give the closing prayer, thanking the gods for their blessings and asking for the continued prosperity of the village.
As the sun rose over the village, the chief priest Omawo stood before the crowds, his long white robes flowing in the breeze. He raised his hands to the sky and began to chant prayers to the gods, asking for their blessings on the new year and the crops that would sustain the village.
After the blessings were complete, it was time for the cutting of the new yam. The villagers gathered around as Ohanize, the village elder, carefully sliced into the first yam of the season. Cheers erupted from the crowd as the yam was lifted into the air, a symbol of prosperity and abundance for the coming year.
As the day wore on, the villagers feasted on yam dishes of all kinds – roasted yam, yam porridge, yam fufu. The women of the village had been preparing for weeks, chopping, boiling, and frying yams in every way imaginable. The smell of spices and herbs filled the air, tempting even the pickiest of eaters.
As the sun began to set, the villagers gathered around the central square for the evening entertainment. Dancers twirled and leaped to the beat of the drums, their colorful costumes swirling around them. The sound of laughter and music filled the air, a joyous celebration of life and community.
As the night crept in, the chief announced that there would be a special performance by the fire dancers. The villagers gasped in awe as the dancers twirled flaming torches in the air, creating patterns of light and shadow that danced across the sky. The heat from the flames warmed their faces, casting a glow of excitement and wonder over the crowd.
As the last embers of the fire died down, the villagers retired to their homes, bellies full of yam and hearts full of joy. The sixth day of the yam festival had been a resounding success, a day of tradition, celebration, and unity in the village of Oklahoma City.
And so, the villagers of Igbo land drifted off to sleep, dreaming of the blessings of the gods and the promise of a prosperous year ahead. The sixth day of the yam festival had come to an end, but the memories of that magical day would live on in their hearts forever.
With that, the sixth day of the yam festival came to a close, leaving behind memories of joy, unity, and gratitude. The villagers retired to their homes, their hearts full and their bellies satisfied. As they drifted off to sleep, the sound of drums echoed in their dreams, a reminder of the vibrant spirit that united them all on this special day.
THE SEVENTH DAY WAS THE LAST DAY OF YAMS FESTIVAL AT OKLAHOMA CITY IN OKLAHOMA STATE IN FAR EASTERN
PARTS OF NIGERIA. its a day to collect and connect to new friends , exchange of gifts and free day of declear free foods and dance and dance,
Chidi and joy met different people and different personalities from different parts of the world,, they sitting group by group to share new business strategy ideas , the local musical was hot play on the last day, after everything at market square the lady prayer will me says by the chief priest Omawo and last speech by Ohanize.
The Seventh Day of the Yams Festival at Oklahoma City in Oklahoma State in far eastern parts of Nigeria was a day of celebration and connection. It was a day when people from all over the world gathered together to exchange gifts, share food, and dance to the rhythm of the local music.
Chidi and Joy, two young entrepreneurs, arrived at the festival eager to make new connections and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. They wandered through the bustling market square, marveling at the colorful stalls selling everything from handmade crafts to exotic spices. As they walked, they struck up conversations with people from different countries and cultures, learning about their lives and businesses.
Eventually, they found themselves sitting in a circle with a group of fellow entrepreneurs, each one sharing their own unique business strategy ideas. Chidi listened intently as a woman from Japan talked about the art of mindfulness in business, while Joy shared her experience of