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The vibrant Ufia New Yam Festival, known as Jokah, reached its grand finale on September 8, 2025, at St. Paul’s Special Primary School in Utonkon, drawing a crowd of dignitaries, community leaders, and cultural enthusiasts. The event, hosted by the Ado Local Government, showcased the rich cultural heritage of the Ufia people, uniting attendees from within Nigeria and abroad.
The festival’s highlight featured a tribute from a prominent figure who thanked the elders and community for their unwavering support. Acknowledging the challenges of governance, the speaker pledged to continue serving the people with innovative solutions and concluded with a significant financial contribution to the Ufia Development Association (UDA).
The occasion was graced by notable dignitaries, including Chief Tony Omirigwe (National President, UDA), Chief Hon. Dennis Ekpe Ogbu, Ph.D. (Ogakwu K’Idoma), Barrister Simon Chuzi Egede, MON, Chief Edwin Ogbu Ocheme (Otta I of Ufia Kingdom), Mr. Sam Ojike, Chief Emmanuel Ajogi, Engr. Sunny Ogaga Ogbu (National First Vice President, UDA), and Mr. Patrick Edeh (National Vice President, IPDA), among many others. Their presence underscored the event’s importance to the community.
Jokah marks the culmination of a three-part harvest celebration. The first part, Rakeng, involves a ritual cleansing of the land in July; the second, Richi, features sacrifices to the gods in August; and finally, Jokah in September signifies the community’s blessing to consume the new yam harvest. These traditions, observed by Ufia people regardless of religious affiliations, highlight the community’s deep-rooted cultural unity.
Meanwhile, Engr. Sunny Oche, Chairman of Ado Local Government, expressed his delight at attending the colorful event. He commended the organizers, particularly the Ufia Development Association (UDA), Ufia Youth Forum (UYF), and Daughters of Ufia International Association, for their efforts in preserving and promoting the cultural richness of the Ufia people.
The festival proved a resounding success, celebrating the unity and cultural heritage of the community. Signed by Innocent Igelle, the event left a lasting impression of pride and togetherness among all who attended.
Stay tuned for more updates on cultural celebrations in the region!
