On Tuesday, the people of Mburubu in Nkanu East Local Government Area of Enugu State celebrated their New Yam Festival, an event that has become a vibrant highlight in recent years.
The 2024 New Yam Festival, hosted by their illustrious son Engr. Dr. Jerry Patrick Onuokaibe, Ezediọramma 1 of Mburubu, attracted dignitaries from various works of life who joined community members in the festivities.
In an interview with newsmen, Dr. Onuokaibe described the event as a tribute to yam, a vital agricultural product cherished in Igbo and Nkanu traditions. “This celebration is essential as it unites us to honour yam and support our farmers,” he remarked. “The term ‘ịgba-Aju’ signifies our community’s unity as we give thanks for the harvest.”
Dr. Onuokaibe explained his decision to host this year’s festival, stating that the community chose him to lead, a role he embraced. He emphasized that organizing the New Yam Festival was a vital way to express gratitude for a bountiful harvest. “I felt honoured to take the lead in hosting this celebration for our successful harvest,” he shared, noting the endorsement from the Ákwá Mburubu group, which encompasses all traditional chief priests in the area.
He also lauded Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah’s leadership, praising his unwavering commitment to urban and rural development, including the construction of a Type 2 hospital and a smart school in Mburubu, as well as appointing their son, Prince Lawrence Ozoemena Ezeh, to his cabinet. Describing Governor Mbah as a “talk and do” leader, he stated, “Our governor exemplifies action. His developmental efforts are evident throughout the state.”
Dr. Onuokaibe further commended Governor Mbah’s dedication to culture and tourism, as well as his commitment to enhancing workers’ welfare by approving a minimum wage of ₦80,000. “Governor Mbah’s support for our cultural heritage and his focus on workers’ welfare are truly inspiring,” he affirmed.
Chief Chukwudi Sylvanus Frankline, representing the Ndị Nze na Ọzọ Mburubu, hailed the 2024 yam festival as the most remarkable and unifying event for their community. He noted that Dr. Onuokaibe, their chosen traditional ruler, has demonstrated the potential that strong leadership can unlock, stating, “With him, we envision a brighter future for our community, and he has our full support.”
Chief Frankline expressed gratitude to Governor Mbah for initiating road construction in their community, a project long neglected by previous administrations. “We are thankful to the governor for responding to our pleas for improved roads, a need that past governments overlooked,” he said.
In his remarks, former Arsenal, Ajax, and Portsmouth FC striker, and Super Eagles legend, Kanu Nwankwo, praised Dr. Jerry Onuokaibe for his efforts to unite the community through this special event. He urged all Mburubians to support Dr. Onuokaibe’s vision for progress, saying, “Dr. Jerry has shown immense love and commitment to his people. I am proud to stand by him as a friend and supporter.”
The festival also showcased cultural dance groups from seven villages in Mburubu and featured performances by music icons such as Anyidons, Onyeoma Tochukwu, Ulaga, Ajọ Ofia Nnewi, as well as guests including Dubby Gustavo, Okoh Emmanuel Onyekachi, known as Okwuruora ndị Igbo, Igwe Okeke Arum of Mbulu Owo, Chairman of the Nkanu East Traditional Rulers Council, Ìgwè Hyceint Edeani, Ijele Aguleri, Ike Ibagwa, and Lucky Luciano, among others.
