Hon. Godwin Offiono Hosts Dist. Sen. Jarigbe Agom at Yala New Yam Festival
Hon. Godwin Offiono Hosts Dist. Sen. Jarigbe Agom at Yala New Yam Festival
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
A Grand Celebration of Culture and Politics in Cross River North
The Member representing Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Godwin Offiono, today played host to the Distinguished Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, during this year’s Yala New Yam Festival. The colourful occasion took place at Hon. Offiono’s Okpaoloko residence in Okuku Ward, where political leaders, community stakeholders, and party faithful gathered to mark the symbolic cultural event.

High-Profile Attendance at Okpaoloko Residence
The distinguished senator, accompanied by an array of political heavyweights, received a rousing welcome from Hon. Offiono and his constituents. Among those present were the State Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Vena Ikem, as well as several notable personalities, including Mr. John George, Prof. Zana Akpagu, Papa DC Enamhe, Chief Igbe Aruku, Mr. Itomishor, Bishop Idi Yakubu, Mr. Joseph Adoga, Roy Akpak, and Joe Ulom.
Akahi News gathered that the gathering was not only a cultural reunion but also a political convergence, with supporters, well-wishers, and community members trooping out to pay respect to their leaders. The event underscored the continued synergy between elected representatives and their people, reflecting the unity of purpose among stakeholders in the Cross River North Senatorial District.
Visit to Chief Ogbuole Agi’s Skills Centre Launch
Earlier in the day, Distinguished Senator Jarigbe and Hon. Offiono, alongside other party leaders, graced the New Yam celebration hosted by Chief Ogbuole Agi. At the occasion, Chief Agi unveiled a skills acquisition centre dedicated to the training of young fashion designers, a move that has been widely commended by the community.
The unveiling of the skills centre added a developmental touch to the cultural celebration, signifying the fusion of tradition and progress. Speaking at the event, community members lauded the initiative as a timely step towards youth empowerment and job creation, especially in an era when unemployment remains a pressing challenge in Nigeria.
Festivities Continue in Mbube Community
Following the warm reception at Okpaoloko, the political leaders proceeded to Mbube to join the community’s New Yam Festival celebration. The move highlighted the collective respect for tradition and the importance of unity across Yala and Ogoja communities.
Akahi News learnt that the participation of the lawmakers and party stakeholders in multiple events during the day was a strong testament to the deep-rooted value attached to the New Yam Festival in the Yala cultural calendar. It also reflected the closeness between the leaders and the people, as they continue to embrace their cultural identity while driving developmental initiatives.
Cultural Heritage Meets Political Leadership
The Yala New Yam Festival, beyond its agricultural symbolism, has continued to serve as a platform for political leaders to reconnect with their constituents. By actively engaging in these celebrations, leaders like Senator Jarigbe and Hon. Offiono not only honour tradition but also strengthen the social fabric that binds the communities together.
Observers believe that such gatherings offer opportunities for dialogue, trust-building, and collective progress. It is also seen as a reminder that politics, at its core, should remain about people and their shared heritage.
The hosting of Distinguished Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe by Hon. Godwin Offiono during the Yala New Yam Festival has once again highlighted the enduring significance of culture as a unifying force in Cross River State. With the presence of notable personalities and the unveiling of a skills centre for youth empowerment, the celebration was not only about tradition but also about charting a path for development and inclusiveness.
As the festivities continue across Yala and neighbouring communities, the event will remain a testament to the strength of unity, cultural pride, and visionary leadership in the region.
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