The people of Ebem Ohafia in Ohafia local government area of Abia State have marked annual new yam festival which coincided with the Igba Ekpe festival amidst excitement and fanfare.
ABN TV reports that the new yam festival is a period to hold thanksgiving to God for the grace and the success of planting, nurturing and harvest seasons.
The event presents the peace-loving, hospitable and most accommodating people the opportunity to showcase their culture which are gradually going into extinction.
At the ceremony which took place at Abum square, various masquerades, dance groups and age grades which symbolize the culture of the people of Ebem were showcased.
True to the advise and appeal of the Natural and Paramount Ruler of Ebem Kingdom, Ohafia, HRH Ukoha Kalu Ukoha, JP, Kpoke I of Ekeluogo Ebem Autonomous Community, the ceremony was both colourful and peaceful as no record of disagreements were recorded.
It also attracted sons and daughters of the community within the country and in Diaspora. Friends, in-laws and well wishers of the community were all present and in their full celebratory mood.
Members of Ebem Ohafia Development Union, EODU led by the President General, Chief Emeka Mba (Bam Bam) were on ground and supported by the community vigilante group to forestall possible breakdown of law and order.
Also present to witness the twin event was the Commander of 14 Brigade Nigerian Army Ebem Ohafia, Brigadier General Adegoke Adetuyi, who pledged to serve the community and Abians with utmost professionalism and dedication.
Ebem is seen as a pace-setter in Ohafia generally and has consistently demonstrated its role of leadership in the community.
Other communities in Ohafia are urged to emulate Ebem for an accelerated development.
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