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By Adebowale Johnson
In a striking fusion of cultural celebration and urgent advocacy, the Nzuko Edda, Lagos branch, spotlighted Nigeria’s crippling security crisis during the vibrant 2025 New Yam Festival held in Lagos. While the yam harvest was joyously celebrated, community leaders used the platform to demand swift government action against the rising tide of violence that threatens the nation’s socio-economic wellbeing.
Sam Obasi, President of Nzuko Edda Lagos, addressed the gathering passionately, calling on authorities to intensify efforts against insecurity that has disrupted daily life across Nigeria. “The high levels of insecurity, including kidnapping, conflicts involving Fulani herdsmen, and armed robbery, have severely impacted our societal and economic fabric,” Obasi declared during the festival and the inauguration of the branch’s new Board of Trustees. He challenged the government’s slow response and urged the adoption of modern technologies and strategic solutions to restore peace.
Obasi emphasized the critical need to end farmers-herdsmen clashes, particularly the deliberate destruction of farms by cattle, which jeopardizes Nigeria’s food production and heightens scarcity risks. “When security is guaranteed, our farmers can cultivate freely, Nigeria can overcome hunger, and economic growth will follow,” he affirmed. His message was clear: no peace, no prosperity.
Despite the heavy concerns, the festival radiated resilience and hope. Obasi highlighted the New Yam Festival as a deep-rooted symbol of abundance and survival against adversity. “This festival commemorates our endurance through times of famine. Today, as we feast on the new yam, we celebrate life and continued prosperity,” he explained.
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The event also fostered unity among the Edda people of Edo State residing in Lagos, with Ezeogo Hassan Ekumankama, a revered elder, affirming the festival’s positive role in strengthening cultural pride and cohesion across the eleven autonomous communities of Edda in Lagos.
Adding his voice to the celebration, Festus Ibiam, CEO of RESSA, described the festival as a vibrant display of Igbo culture, essential for community interaction and collective progress. “It’s a moment to share life updates, discuss projects, and cherish our heritage,” Ibiam noted.
Women Coordinator Edith Ezeson closed the occasion with gratitude to God for the blessing of life and the opportunity to witness another New Yam Festival in Lagos, a powerful testament to endurance and hope.
As Nigeria grapples with insecurity and economic hurdles, Nzuko Edda Lagos’s plea underscores the urgent need for peace and stability as foundational steps towards unlocking the country’s full potential.
