By Mfonobong Ukpong
Ikot Ekpene Local Government, the Raffia City today made a spectacular appearance at the Akwa Ibom Christmas Village, situated at the Unity Park, Udo Udoma Avenue, Uyo.
The event which marked day 14 of the ongoing Akwa Ibom Christmas unplugged, showcased the rich cultural heritage of Ikot Ekpene, leaving attendees in awe.
Led by the Council Chairman of Ikot Ekpene, Hon. Aniefiok Nkom, accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Affiong Nkom, the Ikot Ekpene delegation comprised stakeholders, traditional rulers, women, and youths. Together, they displayed their cultural prowess through captivating music, dance, and art performances, highlighting the unique identity of Ikot Ekpene.
The event featured a colorful carnival float, vibrant cultural displays, and a presentation of various cuisines native to Ikot Ekpene. The village setting was filled with excitement and glamour as attendees enjoyed the various activities and entertainment on offer.
Amongst the cultural display were, Mbopo, abre, abiakpo, ballad presentation, Asian akanawan, Ikot Ekpene maiden, Ekpo cultural display, and others.
Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Sir. Charles Udoh and the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mrs. Grace Akpan, also joined the people of Ikot Ekpene in celebrating their day.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of Ikot Ekpene, Hon. Aniefiok Nkom, who described the people of the Raffia City as unique, said Ikot Ekpene decided to bring its rich cultural uniqueness to showcase at the Christmas Village.
Describing the outing as successful, the Ikot Ekpene Council boss commended Governor Umo Eno for the initiative, noting that the Christmas unplugged celebration has become a melting pot for the promotion of the unique cultural identity of Akwa Ibom people, and further strengthening the bond of unity in the State.
“We came out united in ensuring a successful outing. I want to thank everyone in Ikot Ekpene across party lines that honoured our invitation to celebrate their day.
“This has brought Unity. It has brought togetherness, friendliness among all the local government areas in Akwa Ibom”.
A roll call of personalities from Ikot Ekpene who graced the outing at the Christmas Village include, the Paramount Ruler of Ikot Ekpene, Akuku Okon Udo Ukut, Political Leader of Ikot Ekpene, and Proprietor of Ritman University, Senator Emanuel Ibok Essien, former House of Representatives Member, Rt. Hon. Nsikak Ekong, House of Assembly Member representing Ikot Ekpene/Obot Akara State Constituency in the House of Assembly, Hon. Jerry Otu, Vice-Chancellor, Akwa Ibom State University, Prof. Nse Essien, Chairman, Ibom Power Company, Engr. Etido Inyang, former Council Chairman and General Manager, Akwa Ibom Bulk Purchase Agency, Hon. Unyime Etim, and Akwa Ibom State Chairman, Nigeria Institute of Public Relations, NIPR, Elder. Manasseh Umoette, who is also the Public Relations Officer, Federal Polytechnic, Ukana.
Others include, former Head of Council, Hon. David Umana, Leader of legislature, Hon. Nkereuwem Umoh, Surv. Sir. David Essien, State Financial Secretary of APC, Obong Amadu, former Chairman of Council, Obongawan Gloria Useh, former Chairman of Ikot Ekpene, Sir. John Cleton Etim, a dealer in Raffia Materials in the Raffia City, Mr. Augustine Ibok, State Chairman of YPP, Elder. Wisdom Udoka, Chapter PDP Chairman, Ikot Ekpene, Idorenyin Okon, Village heads and a host of others.
The Akwa Ibom Christmas Village has become a significant tourist attraction in the state, celebrating the rich cultural diversity of Akwa Ibom while promoting local businesses and entrepreneurship.
