Aduikukwa: The Unique New Year Festival of Avhianwu
By Dr. John Odior Anaweokhai
Beyond Christmas and New Year’s celebrations, our community observes several traditional festivals, including the New Yam, Esi, and our distinct New Year, Aduikukwa. This festive period, spanning from February to April, coincides with the harmattan season.
A striking aspect of Aduikukwa is its emphasis on prayer. On this special day, everyone comes together in prayer, exchanging blessings and well-wishes. It’s a time for reconciliation, setting aside past grievances and negativity. Elders seize this opportunity to impart blessings upon the younger generation.
The morning greetings, “ONOTSE ONOTSE LO,” translate to “blessings upon blessings.” The phrase “ADUIKWE ‘BE LA KWA” signifies cleansing ourselves of negativity. The community tidies up, ensuring a clean environment to welcome the New Year.
This festive period inspires spiritual reflection, interdependence, and a collective awareness of life’s transient nature. The excitement is palpable as eligible boys and girls visit the streams, accompanied by the sound of the Akpo gege metal gong.
he celebration takes place on Ewor day with Omhi akphe. For women, particularly age mates, Aduikukwa marks a time for financial reflection and sharing investment returns. The council of elders, in conjunction with The Okphe Ukpi, also uses this opportunity to review the past year. Also, they usually use the opportunity to announce new laws or changes to existing laws and regulations
Aduikukwa is a unique and meaningful celebration that promotes unity, spiritual growth, and community bonding.