Bayelsa community marks 68 years of migration to new settlement

..Diri, Ogbuku laud Ayakoro community heritage

By Emem Idio

AYAKORO — Before 1958, the people of Ayakoro used to settle on one side of the Ekole River; however, over time the community was besieged by devastating gully erosion resulting in loss of lives, properties and houses.

History has it that after several communal efforts to tame the troubling menace, the leadership of the community at that time took the bold decision to lead the migration of the community to the present day settlement of Ayakoro across the Ekole River.

The locals endured the challenges of building a new settlement from scratch, and overtime they have been celebrating the historic milestone of the migration in what is known as the annual Eyal Oberin Festival, held every February 28.

Historical heritage

Governor Douye Diri, who attended this year’s festival, as special guest of honour, praised the community’s resilience and described the event as a tribute to the founding fathers of Ayakoro. He also announced that the community would benefit from the ongoing Akaba-Ogu-Okodi road project, which would boost connectivity and economic growth.

His words: “As a son of Tarakiri Kingdom just like the people of Ayakoro, we must continue to celebrate our rich cultural heritage, which binds our people together.

“I am delighted by the remarkable transformation I have witnessed in Ayakoro and the progress reflects strong collaboration between the community, the state government and the NDDC. I want to commend the people for their peaceful disposition and continued support for our government of Assured Prosperity. I assure you that Ayakoro Community will benefit from the ongoing Akaba–Ogu-Okodi road project to boost connectivity and economic growth.”

In his speech, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, Managing Director/CEO of the NDDC, who also doubled as the chief host, highlighted the festival’s significance, saying it reflects the community’s rich cultural identity and enduring spirit.

Ogbuku, who paid glowing tributes to the resilience and admirable character of the Ayakoro people, said the annual Eyal Oberin “honours the faith and courage of our forefathers who first discovered and settled in Ayakoro — a land once untouched — laying the solid foundation upon which this proud and thriving community now stands.” He described the community as peaceful and forward-looking people who firmly believe that tomorrow will always be better than today, stressing that the people’s optimism, combined with unity and hard work, continues to sustain the community through generations.

Chairman of Ayakoro Annual Festival Planning Committee, Chief Francis Sisomom Uriah, said the festival is a celebration of the founding fathers and the adaptive spirit of the people and historical heritage of the Ayakoro community.

Dignitaries at the event include Chief Obinna Iyiegbu, aka, Obi Cubana, Chairman of Cubana Group, who served as the chairman of the occasion; members of the Bayelsa State executive council, board members and directors of the NDDC, traditional rulers among others.

The festival featured traditional dances, boat regatta, wrestling competitions, and oral poetry, showcasing the community’s vibrant culture.