Ebem Ohafia Shines In Colourful Igba Ekpe Festival, Celebrates Visitors With Harvested Yams (Photos + Video)

The ancient kingdom of Ebem Ohafia in Ohafia LGA of Abia State came alive with colour, music, and tradition as the community hosted the grand Igba Ekpe Ebem Ukwu Festival, the high point of the 2025 New Yam celebrations, ABN TV reports.

Held at the Ebem Ujuruezie Palace and Abum Square, the event featured spectacular masquerade performances, cultural dances, and age-grade processions that drew large crowds from across Ohafia and beyond.

One of the highlights of the day was the presentation of freshly harvested yams — the pride of Ebem’s farmers — to guests and dignitaries in attendance. This symbolic gesture represented gratitude, hospitality, and the spirit of sharing that defines the New Yam Festival.

The festival was graced by top dignitaries including: Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, Deputy Governor of Abia State, Hon. Ibe Okwara Osonwa, Member Representing Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency, Hon. Kalu Mba Nwoke, member representing Ohafia South state constituency, The Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Ohafia, Amb. Onyekachi Atuloma Loveday, Executive Director of Abia Tours and Vice President, Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (South East), who attended with her crew.

Their presence added glamour and significance to the celebration, with Amb. Atuloma described the event as a “tourism showcase of Igbo cultural pride that deserves more national attention.”

Security agencies, including the Police, DSS, Civil Defence, FRSC, Army, and local vigilantes, ensured the event was peaceful. Traditional security structures and youth volunteers also worked tirelessly to keep the celebration well-coordinated.

Speaking after the festival, the Ebem Ohafia Development Union (EODU), through its Publicity Secretary, Ifeanyi Okali, thanked indigenes, friends, and well-wishers at home and abroad for turning out in large numbers to celebrate:

“This year’s Igba Ekpe has reminded us of who we are as a people. Our culture is alive and strong, and we are deeply grateful to everyone who joined us in making this celebration a huge success.”