🌺 Ofala Festival: When a Czech “Girl” Finds Herself in the Palace of a Nigerian King

At the end of the year, we'll take part in another Ofala Festival - a major celebration held in honor of my husband's father, the king. This year will be even more special as we'll also celebrate the round birthday of our grandfather, King George Okaa-Onwuogu of Nawgu (Anambra, Nigeria). When I first attended the festival in 2017, I had no idea how deeply it would stay with me.

What is Ofala, really? 

Ofala is a traditional festival of the Igbo people, during which the king - called the Igwe - comes out among his people after a period of spiritual retreat and renewal. It's a symbolic thanksgiving for a successful year and a renewal of the king's blessings and connection with the community.

But it's far from a closed ritual.  It's a joyful, vibrant celebration of life, unity, and gratitude, bringing together people from near and far. There's music, drums, dancing, food, laughter - the whole town comes alive for days.

My First Ofala 

Our first experience was back in 2017. We came with our boys - then 10 and 6 years old  and our daughter Ada wasn't born yet. Stepping into the palace courtyard felt like entering another world. Women in stunning headwraps, men in white tunics, the sound of drums and singing everywhere. It was grand and natural all at once.

I was helping with serving the guests. Around me were wonderful young men, former students of my husband's brother, who is a priest. They all wore outfits made from the same Ankara fabric, each in their own style, and they were so kind and full of energy. We served food and drinks, greeted guests – in total, there were about 300 people at the palace that day.
By the end, my legs were completely destroyed, and our secret survival strategy was sipping a little Czech wine to keep going. 🍷

Meanwhile, my husband was mingling with important guests, as a royal son should.
Our children stayed in their room, playing on the PlayStation we had brought along. When I ask them today what they remember, they say: "Not much, Mom. We just peeked out and went back in." 😄

👑 The King Who Is Also a Grandfather 

Our grandfather, George Okaa-Onwuogu, was elected king of Nawgu in 2013.
Among the Igbo people, kingship is not hereditary – the king is chosen by the council of elders and community members who believe he has the wisdom and strength to unite people. It's more of a symbolic and moral role, yet still deeply respected.
The king serves as a guardian of tradition and a bridge between the people and the spiritual world. Even in modern times, that respect and reverence for the king's position remains profound.

When the Police Came for a "Smile" 

At one point, the local police showed up - officially to "check security." In reality, they were hoping for a little… appreciation. And I, being the oigbo (the white woman), bribed them with three bottles of Czech wine. They left happy and smiling. So did I. Everyone knew that's just how things go sometimes. 😄 My husband was surprised it didn't take more than that! 

An Experience That Changes You 

Looking back, it was one of those experiences that open your heart and widen your world. Standing among hundreds of people singing, dancing, and thanking God – not for wealth, but for life, family, and togetherness - was fascinating.
I was exhausted, sweaty, but completely fulfilled.

And even though we're going again this year, I know now that nothing about Ofala is ever "just another event." Ofala isn't only a festival. It's a living reminder that, despite our differences, we all share the same longing: to celebrate life, share it, and be together.

💛 I can't wait to return to Nawgu – and maybe this time, the kids will remember more than just the PlayStation. 😄