The 2026 edition of Ikoro-Mgba, the revered traditional wrestling festival of Ebem Ohafia Ancient Kingdom in Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State, ended in grand style on Wednesday as Master Michael Okoro Ubaka emerged champion of the adult category.
The colourful cultural event, which commenced at about 3:45 p.m. at the Ebem Ohafia Ancient Kingdom Arena, attracted a large gathering of sons and daughters of Ebem, cultural enthusiasts, traditional leaders, youths, and visitors who converged to witness one of Ohafia’s oldest and most cherished traditions.
Ikoro-Mgba, regarded as one of the oldest sporting and cultural displays of the Ohafia people, is more than a wrestling competition. It is a symbol of courage, discipline, resilience, and identity, historically used to prepare young men physically and mentally for community leadership and warfare. Today, it continues to preserve the rich warrior heritage of the Ohafia people while promoting unity and healthy competition among the youth.
Held annually every July as part of activities leading to the New Yam Festival and Igba-Ekpe Festival, the event follows the traditional Ebem calendar, beginning with children’s wrestling contests before culminating in the grand finale for adults.
The festival was held under the royal patronage of His Royal Highness, Eze Ukoha Kalu Ukoha, JP, Paramount Ruler of Ebem Ohafia Ancient Kingdom and Kpoke I of Ekeluogo Autonomous Community, whose commitment to preserving the kingdom’s cultural heritage has continued to sustain the age-long tradition.
The event also witnessed the active participation of the Ebem Ohafia Development Union (EODU) executives, led by the President General, Chief Ukoha Uduma, as well as the Youth Wing of EODU, led by its Chairman, Mr. Olua, underscoring the community’s collective commitment to preserving its rich cultural heritage.
A major highlight of the festival was the professional media coverage and event packaging coordinated by the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of EODU, Chief Ifeanyi Okali, through his widely acclaimed media organisation, ABN TV, which hosted and broadcast the event, bringing the celebration to audiences beyond the community.
The grand finale featured thrilling wrestling contests, colourful cultural performances, traditional music, dance, and enthusiastic support from spectators who cheered contestants throughout the competition. No fewer than 20 wrestlers participated in the championship, displaying remarkable strength, courage, and sportsmanship.
At the end of the keenly contested bouts, Master Michael Okoro Ubaka was crowned the 2026 Ikoro-Mgba Ebem Ohafia Champion, earning widespread applause for his outstanding display of skill, resilience, and determination.
In recognition of their participation and commitment to preserving the cultural tradition, all the wrestlers both winners and those who did not win their bouts received cash tokens from the Ebem Ohafia Development Union (EODU). The tokens were generously donated by Chief Ifeanyi Okali and formally presented on behalf of the Union by the Vice President General, Hon. Ukpola, who commended the participants for keeping the spirit of Ikoro-Mgba alive.
The event also witnessed strong representation from the Ukere Abui age grade, alongside other age grades and community groups, further reflecting the unity, solidarity, and cultural pride that Ikoro-Mgba continues to inspire across Ebem Ohafia.
As the curtains fell on the 2026 edition, community leaders, traditional rulers, and participants reaffirmed their commitment to preserving the annual festival for future generations, describing Ikoro-Mgba as a priceless cultural institution that continues to strengthen the identity, heritage, and warrior spirit of the Ohafia people.
Ikoro-Mgba! Mgba bu Ike! Mgba bu Omenala!
