Ebonyi State Governor, Dave Umahi, believes that nothing can unite a people better than their cultural heritage.
Umahi, who was speaking at an event to mark the 2020 grand finale of Izhi New Yam Festival, said for the sake of unity, there is a need to emphasize culture over and above politics.
Among the ethnic Igbo tribes of the South-East region of Nigeria, new yam festival has remained one of the most celebrated annual events.
The celebration showcased the prominence of yam in the social-cultural life of the Igbo people.
Though various communities celebrate the festival at different dates and in different styles, this Wednesday was the display of the rich cultures and traditions of the people of Izhi, an ancient clan in Ebonyi State, made up of three council areas including Abakaliki, the state capital.
Having endeared himself to the Ebonyi people through the lofty achievements of his administration in the last five years, Governor Umahi, unsurprisingly, received a rousing welcome from the people of Izhi.
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Umahi, in his address, said it is unnecessary for people to keep playing politics after elections have been successfully concluded.
The Izhi new yam festival attracted the presence of notable sons and daughters of the community including the former Governor of Ebonyi State and current Senator representing Ebonyi North District, Senator Sam Egwu.
Editor: Ena Agbanoma
