Hon. Ifeanyi Kingsley Ekwuribe, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for Umuahia South State Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly 2027 election, has felicitated with the people of Olokoro on the occasion of their New Yam Festival.
Ekwuribe, an illustrious son of Olokoro, in a goodwill message, described the festival as an important cultural celebration that reflects the rich heritage, traditions and communal values of the people.
He said the festival provides an opportunity for families and communities to come together in thanksgiving, strengthen bonds of unity and preserve the cultural heritage handed down by their ancestors.
The PDP candidate congratulated the traditional rulers, chiefs, elders, women, men and youths of Olokoro for witnessing another season of celebration, commending them for their contributions to the peace, progress and development of the community.
He urged the people to use the occasion to promote peace, love, unity and brotherhood, stressing that the development of Olokoro depends on the collective efforts of its people irrespective of age, status or political affiliation.
Ekwuribe particularly called on the youths to remain focused, disciplined and responsible, urging them to shun violence, thuggery, intolerance and other activities capable of threatening the peace and progress of the community.
He also cautioned against drug abuse, describing substance abuse as a serious threat to the future of young people, their families and society at large.
Rather than engaging in destructive activities, he encouraged the youths to channel their energy and talents into education, entrepreneurship, vocational skills, agriculture, technology, sports and other productive ventures that can create opportunities and improve their lives.
According to him, young people are not merely leaders of tomorrow but important stakeholders in the development of Olokoro and Umuahia South today.
He therefore called on parents, traditional rulers, community leaders and other stakeholders to continue mentoring and supporting the youths while creating opportunities for them to develop their talents and contribute meaningfully to society.
Ekwuribe also urged the elders and traditional institutions to continue providing the wisdom and guidance needed to preserve the values that have sustained Olokoro as a united community.
He appealed to the people to celebrate responsibly and use the festival to strengthen relationships, support one another and pray for continued peace, prosperity and development across Olokoro and Umuahia South State Constituency.
He wished the people of Olokoro a joyful, peaceful and prosperous New Yam Festival, expressing hope that the new harvest would bring abundance, happiness and renewed hope to families.
“Let us celebrate our culture with pride, embrace one another with love, reject violence and drug abuse, and dedicate ourselves to activities that will build a stronger and more prosperous Olokoro for present and future generations,” Ekwuribe said.
