…Says Abiriba’s Support For Otti Administration Comes With Expectations Of Measurable Development
The Deputy Governor of Abia State, His Excellency, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, FNSE, has joined the people of Abiriba Ancient Kingdom in celebrating the 2026 Eke Mbu, Iri Ndi Ndi Abiriba New Yam Festival, describing the annual cultural gathering as a celebration of heritage, communal bonds, hard work and gratitude to God.
Emetu, who represented the Executive Governor of Abia State, His Excellency, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, at the event, attended the festival on Thursday, September 17, 2026, at Amaukwu, Amaeke, Abiriba.
He conveyed Governor Otti’s warm greetings and congratulations to the people of Abiriba, while noting that the New Yam Festival provided an important opportunity for sons and daughters of the kingdom, both at home and in the diaspora, to return to their roots, reconnect with their heritage and strengthen the bonds of friendship, brotherhood and community responsibility.
The Deputy Governor described Abiriba as a kingdom with a rich history, culture, enterprise and industry, noting the contributions of its people to business, public service, education and community development.
According to him, the celebration goes beyond the eating of new yam, as it also offers the people an opportunity to reflect on God’s faithfulness, celebrate the fruits of their hard work and renew their commitment to the growth and development of the community.
Speaking on the political environment ahead of the 2027 general elections, Emetu acknowledged the support which the people of Abiriba have shown for the Labour Party and the administration of Governor Otti.
He, however, said such support also comes with expectations for tangible, responsive and measurable development.
The Deputy Governor urged the people to carefully examine the records, programmes and promises of political candidates as the 2027 elections approach, while encouraging active and peaceful participation in the democratic process.
Emetu also recognised one of Abiriba’s prominent sons, Chief Dr. David Ogba Onuoha Bourdex, MFR, OON, who is stepping forward as the Labour Party candidate for the Abia North Senatorial District.
He noted that Bourdex’s candidacy had generated important conversations within the political space of Abia North, urging the electorate to thoughtfully consider the candidates and issues as they prepare for the 2027 elections.
The Deputy Governor used the occasion to make a strong appeal for unity among Ndi Abiriba, irrespective of political affiliations.
He cautioned that political activities should not be allowed to undermine the peace, brotherhood and strong community relationships that have continued to hold the kingdom together.
“No matter our political differences, Abiriba should always stand as one family, Abia must remain a united State, and our shared goal should be the development of our people,” he stated.
Emetu also commended the Enachịoken-in-Council, traditional rulers, community leaders, women, youths and the Planning Committee for their efforts towards sustaining the New Yam Festival and preserving the cultural heritage of Abiriba.
He stressed the importance of traditional institutions in preserving the history, values and identity of the people, while encouraging Ndi Abiriba to remain connected to their cultural roots and, at the same time, embrace development and opportunities capable of improving the wellbeing of the people.
Enachịoken Offers Royal Blessings
In his remarks, the Enachịoken of Abiriba, HRM Eze Kalu Ogbu, offered royal blessings to Governor Alex Chioma Otti, Deputy Governor Emetu and other leaders at various levels of government.
The traditional ruler prayed for continued wisdom, peace and success for the leaders as they discharge their responsibilities in service to the people and community.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Planning Committee, HRH Eze Ukiwo Otisi, expressed appreciation to the Enachịoken-in-Council for entrusting him with the responsibility of coordinating the festival.
Eze Otisi described the New Yam Festival as a celebration of hard work, productivity, perseverance, communal living and shared prosperity.
He said the 2026 edition was particularly significant because of its proximity to the 2027 electoral season, explaining that some aspects of the programme were deliberately designed to promote sportsmanship, friendship, unity and peaceful coexistence among the people.
The Planning Committee Chairman encouraged sons and daughters of Abiriba to pay greater attention to what they could contribute to the development of their community, rather than focusing solely on what they expected to receive from it.
Bourdex Reaffirms Commitment To Abia North
Chief Dr. David Ogba Onuoha Bourdex, MFR, OON, Ugo’Ena Nde Abiriba, also congratulated the Enachịoken-in-Council, the three communities of Ameke, Agboji and Amogudu, as well as the traditional institutions, elders, women, youths and the entire Abiriba community for their participation in the festival.
He described the New Yam Festival as a strong affirmation of the identity, courage, enterprise and communal strength of the Abiriba people.
Bourdex expressed gratitude to the community for its support for his aspiration to represent Abia North Senatorial District in the Senate, stressing that the ambition comes with a commitment to serve all communities across the senatorial district.
He also called on the people to continue supporting Governor Otti and the administration’s development agenda.
The festival attracted an array of dignitaries, including the immediate past Deputy Governor of Abia State, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sir Ude Oko Chukwu; the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Trade, Commerce and Industry, Chief Nwaka Inem; the Mayor of Ohafia Local Government Area, Hon. Chief Eleanya Ojuu Kalu; the Commissioner of Police, Abia State Command, CP Wilfred Olutokunbo Afolabi; and the President General of the Abiriba Communal Improvement Union (ACIU) Worldwide, Chief Uche Otah Uwa.
Royal fathers, prominent sons and daughters of the Abiriba Ancient Kingdom and other distinguished guests also attended the colourful celebration.
Sir Cyril Chukwudi Eke Mba
Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor of Abia State
September 18, 2026
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