Distinguished Sen. Jarigbe Agom Arrives Okuku for Yala New Yam Festival Celebration

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News

The ancient town of Okuku in Yala Local Government Area of Cross River State came alive on Saturday as the distinguished Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, joined his people in the grand celebration of the 2025 New Yam Festival.

The event, which was streamed live on the official Facebook page of Okwori Mary Amicable, drew a large crowd of dignitaries, cultural associations, traditional groups, and enthusiastic indigenes who gathered to witness the arrival of their senator.

A Colourful Reception for the Senator

Upon his arrival, Senator Jarigbe was received with warmth and enthusiasm by prominent leaders of Yala land, including Hon. Godwin Offiono, the member representing Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, as well as Chief Ogbuole Agi, Yala Coordinator to the Senator.

The distinguished lawmaker was also welcomed by several cultural and socio-political organisations such as the Ohaneze Ndi Igbo, the Bausa Community, and various dance troupes from across Yala. The atmosphere was charged with jubilation as the people celebrated both the New Yam Festival and the presence of one of their most respected political leaders.

The Significance of the New Yam Festival

The New Yam Festival in Yala land, locally known as Ihi Onippipe, is one of the most important cultural events marking the beginning of the harvest season. It is not merely a feast but a ritual of thanksgiving, symbolising gratitude to God and the ancestors for a bountiful harvest.

By joining his people in this year’s celebration, Senator Jarigbe not only reinforced his cultural identity but also demonstrated his closeness to the grassroots, a quality for which he has earned wide admiration across Cross River North.

Akahi News gathered that his presence at the festival underscored his commitment to preserving cultural heritage while strengthening the bond between leadership and the community.

Unity in Diversity

The presence of groups such as the Ohaneze Ndi Igbo and other ethnic communities during the festival highlighted the spirit of unity and peaceful coexistence in Yala Local Government Area. Leaders of these associations expressed appreciation for being recognised and included in the festival, which they described as a reflection of Yala’s inclusive culture.

Dance troupes from different clans added colour to the celebration, while community leaders took turns to express gratitude to the senator for always identifying with his people at cultural and community gatherings.

Senator Jarigbe’s Consistent Connection with His People

Over the years, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe has built a reputation as a people-oriented politician who places emphasis on being accessible to his constituents. His appearance at Okuku for the New Yam Festival is seen as another proof of his readiness to identify with the customs, traditions, and aspirations of his people.

Speaking at the event, some stakeholders hailed the senator for his humility and strong grassroots presence, noting that his leadership style has bridged the gap between the elite and the ordinary people of Yala.

Community Leaders Laud the Gesture

Chief Ogbuole Agi, the senator’s coordinator in Yala, described the senator’s visit as a symbol of respect for tradition. According to him, the celebration was not only about yam but also about love, unity, and cultural preservation.

Similarly, Hon. Godwin Offiono commended the senator for always standing by the people of Yala and Ogoja, adding that festivals such as the New Yam celebration remain critical platforms for strengthening communal ties and reminding the younger generation of their cultural roots.

The 2025 New Yam Festival in Okuku will be remembered not just for its cultural richness but also for the distinguished presence of Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, whose participation gave the celebration a unique political and communal significance.

As the festival came to a close, many residents expressed hope that such unity between leaders and the people will continue to foster peace, development, and cultural pride across Yala and beyond.

Akahi News http://www.akahinews.org