By Sunday Apah
The people of Udu, Urhobo, Delta State, and the nation at large have been called upon to prepare for an unforgettable celebration as the historic community of Aladja in the Udu Local Government Area of Delta State gears up for an extraordinary cultural extravaganza.
In a statement issued jointly by Barr. Richard Mofe-Damijo, Chairman of the Planning Committee; Chief Dr. Richard Tiki Iyede, Secretary; Prince Ibrahim Dumuje, President General of Aladja Leaders of Thought; Chief Engr. Paulson Okobiebie, Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee; and Hon. Kabedje Dennis Etabuko, Secretary of the LOC, it was announced that the event will take place from December 19 to 21, 2025.
According to the committee, “The vibrant streets of Aladja will burst into life with dazzling colours, pulsating rhythms, and a powerful message of unity at the much-anticipated ‘Aladja Cultural Renaissance for Peace Festival.’
“The thrilling three-day event, themed ‘Renaissance for Peace,’ aims to ignite a cultural rebirth, strengthen community bonds, and proudly showcase the rich traditions of the Aladja people to the world.
“The festival will kick off on Friday morning at 9:00 a.m. with a magnificent parade starting from Aladja Town Hall. The procession will weave through Udu communities amid extensive live media coverage, including a World Press Conference designed to broadcast the festival’s powerful vision of peace and unity.
“Saturday promises even more excitement as the festivities resume at 9:00 a.m. with a grand cultural procession from Aladja Waterside to Evwrirhe Primary School Field.
“Attendees will dazzle in vibrant traditional costumes: Owhorhu (white top on red wrapper), Izagbo (white top on yellow wrapper), and Uloho (white top on blue wrapper), each symbolizing a proud heritage.
“The day will be filled with stunning displays of cultural prowess, featuring the exhilarating Udje Aladja traditional dance, fierce tug-of-war contests, the mesmerizing Ugogolodi performance, and electrifying live concerts by celebrated artists like Sir Juju & Udjabor Jr, Negheneghen Jr, and others.
“Masquerade displays and other indigenous festivities promise to captivate every audience member.
“The grand finale on Sunday will begin with a heartfelt thanksgiving service at 10:00 a.m., followed by a fun-filled novelty football match pitting Young Ladies against Old Men in a spirited showdown.
“As night falls, the festival will move to Dekot Resort at Cabham Hotel for an epic party beginning at 4:00 p.m. and continuing until dawn.
“Expect an electrifying lineup of performances from top comedians, musicians, and Nollywood stars handpicked by the legendary actor Barrister Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD),” the statement added.
The committee urges the public not to miss this monumental cultural revival, as Aladja is set to illuminate the heart of Delta State with a spectacular festival of peace, pride, and heritage.
