Imo Carnival 2015 ends in grand style

Governor Okorocha preparing to light up the 30 meters long Christmas tree

The 2015 Imo Carnival has ended in Owerri today. Events marking the closing ceremony commenced by 10: 30am with participants trekking and dancing from the Freedom Square to Fire Service junction at Wetheral road and back to the Freedom Square while dressed in various colorful traditional attires.

The week long  annual event  which began with a procession of a large number of Imolites along the major streets of Owerri showcased the traditional heritage of the Igbo people. participants were colorfully dressed in traditional attires while the traditional dance group thrilled the spectators with native songs and dance steps.

A high point of the event is the parading of dozens of floats and dancers beautifully decorated to compliment the mood of the occasion.
The floats which came in indifferent artistic designs, sizes colors and shapes were sponsored by some of the state government officials, the Speaker  and members of the State House of Assembly including the Governor and his Deputy.
They moved and danced from the Imo International Convention Center, Orlu Road Junction to Wetheral Road to Fire Service Roundabout and back to the Carnival Village in the Freedom Square.
At the end of the event the float of the Deputy Chief of Staff Internal and Domestic Affairs, Mrs Ogechi Ololo won the first position with that of the Deputy Speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly, Mr Ugonna Ozuruigbo.
The float of Deputy Chief of staff Operations, Egnr. Kinsley Uju won the second position while the floats of Governor Okorocha and his Deputy Prince Eze madumere won the third position.
Some consolation prices were giving to other participants who competed keenly at the carnival.
In his remarks, Governor Okorocha thanked those who participated at the event and expressed optimism that subsequent outings will be better.
 He explained that the event has made tremendous impact in the state in the tourism and hospitality industry and showcased the people’s cultural heritage.
Also speaking at the event, the Deputy Chief Of Staff Domestic and Internal Affairs Mrs Ololo whose float won the first position, described it as a wonderful event with unique and colourful outings.
She eulogized the state governor for his immense support that ensured the successful completion of the 2015 Imo Carnival.

A significant moment of the event took place earlier yesterday when Governor Okorocha lit a 30 meters high Christmas tree at the freedom square.
The event attracted tourists from many States in Nigeria and beyond.

Procession of participants during the carnival on Saturday.

The Deputy Chief Of Staff Domestic and Internal Affairs, Mrs Ogechi Ololo (extreme left), The Chief Of Staff, Govt House, Owerri, Chief Uche Nwosu (Middle) and other participants at the Carnival