Umuahia, Abia State |January 21, 2026 —
The Member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Obi Aguocha, has reaffirmed his commitment to the promotion of peaceful cultural celebrations as he engaged youths of Ohiya Autonomous Community in Umuahia South Local Government Area ahead of the forthcoming Ekpe Festival.
Hon. Aguocha, who was accompanied by the Chief Whip of the Abia State House of Assembly and Member representing Umuahia South State Constituency, Hon. Emeka Tommy Jacob-Obioma, made the remarks during a community interaction at Agbala Umuoram, Ohiya, shortly after paying a condolence visit to the Abazie family of Umueze Ohiya Autonomous Community. The lawmakers had earlier commiserated with the family over the death of the elder brother of the Director-General of the Abia State Orientation Agency, Hon. Ure Abazie, offering prayers and words of comfort during the moment of grief.
Addressing the youths, Aguocha described the Ekpe Festival as a vital cultural institution that embodies the history, values, and collective identity of the people of Ohiya and Umuahia South at large. He stressed that the preservation of such cultural heritage must go hand in hand with peace, discipline, and respect for constituted authority.
“Our cultural festivals are meant to unite us, not divide us,” Aguocha said. “The Ekpe Festival is a proud expression of who we are as a people, and it must be celebrated in a manner that reflects maturity, orderliness, and respect for life and property.”
The federal lawmaker pledged his support for the successful hosting of the festival, noting that peaceful cultural events create opportunities for social cohesion, youth engagement, and local economic activities. According to him, when culture is celebrated responsibly, it becomes a tool for development and a bridge between generations.
“I want to assure you that I will continue to support cultural initiatives that promote unity and peaceful coexistence,” Aguocha added.
“Let us ensure that this year’s Ekpe Festival stands out as a model of peace and organization, one that other communities can look up to with pride.”
Hon. Obi Aguocha also used the occasion to encourage the youths to see themselves as custodians of their cultural heritage and ambassadors of peace within their community. He emphasized that the conduct of young people during cultural events plays a significant role in shaping public perception and attracting goodwill to the area.
In response, the youths of Ohiya Autonomous Community expressed appreciation for the visit and the assurances given by the lawmakers. They pledged to work collectively to ensure a peaceful and successful Ekpe Festival, while also commending Hon. Aguocha for his consistent engagement with communities and his commitment to people-centered representation.
The meeting concluded with a renewed resolve for collaboration between the community and their representatives, underscoring a shared commitment to peace, cultural harmony, and sustainable community development in Umuahia South.
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