Arrival
From 10:00 AM
Guests are received at the square. Come early enough to greet the elders before the assembly.
Programme
How the day unfolds
Times are guides, not laws. The kola waits for no one, but the drums are patient.
Order of the day
From the first kola to the last prayer
Five movements, one long day. Stay for all of it if you can — the evening is when the square is fullest.
Elders and titled men are invited to sit at the ọfọ table at the head of the square.
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10:00
Nnọọ na mbata — Arrival & welcome
Guests are received, seated and greeted. The kola nut is broken with prayers for the kindred.
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11:30
Ụmụnna nzụkọ — Kindred assembly
Lineage, land and family matters. Reports from the year, and a word from the eldest son of the compound.
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13:00
Nri na ọṅụ — Community feast
One long table for the whole kindred. Bring a dish if you can; there will always be enough.
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15:00
Egwu — Masquerade & dance
Dance troupes, masquerade displays and the children's own performance on the open ground.
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17:30
Nsọpụrụ — Honours & closing
Recognition of elders and members who served the kindred this year, closing prayers and photographs.
Before you come
The small practical things
Dress code
Traditional attire & coral
Come in your finest wrapper and lace. Coral beads and a red cap for the elders.
Parking
Open field beside the square
Drivers will be directed on arrival. Nkwerre LGA, Imo State.
Children
Very welcome
There is a children's corner from noon, and they dance with the troupes in the afternoon.