Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

The Delta State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah, has advocated the need for all individuals, especially stakeholders, to contribute their quota in preserving their rich cultural heritages describing it as a critical identity of a people in the society.

Mr. Ukah, who stated this in Okpanam during the ‘nwambele’ festival as part of activities to mark this year’s new yam festival, said that it was imperative for the people to always observe their culture, adding that the festival was unique in all ramifications.

The Information Commissioner, however, lauded the people of Okpanam for their peaceful disposition at all times, particularly during and after the new yam festival, saying that it had been a period to display the harmonious co-existence among the people and residents of the area.

For his part, the Asagba of Okpanam, Obi Adimabua Ozili from Umumale in Obodogwu quarters where ‘nwambele’ festival originated from, said that the festival was being celebrated annually during the new yam festival.

The Asagba advised youths in the community to shun acts that were antithetical to the peace and hospitality that Okpanam community had been known for several decades.

In their separate remarks, a cross session of Okpanam indigenes, including,  Mr. Fred Okolie, Mr. Okonkwo Chinedu Charles, Comrade Lanka Patrick Okolie, Ogbueshi Augustine Nwadozie,  an elder stateman in Ogbodogba quarters,  Mr. Patrick Okonkwo AKA Pato, Mr. Azuka  Nwamuya AKA Ideli, Augustine Igbekea AKA Maraja,  Mesike Olise and Comrade Tony Ukah AKA Kalala, among others, said that the festival had come to stay, adding that the festival had continued to engender happiness  and peaceful co-existence among the people of Okpanam.

While pledging to remain committed to showcasing their culture when the need arose, the people said that the new yam festival was always a time to show appreciation to God for the bumper harvest.

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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka