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From Aniekan Aniekan, Calabar
The Obol Lopon of Ugep and Paramount Ruler of Yakurr HRM OBOL (Dr) Obol Ofem Ubana has explained the reason behind celebrating new yam festivals.
The monarch said the festival aims to thank God for changing half yams into whole ones and also for overcoming hunger prior to the harvest of the new yam.
The Monarch disclosed this at his palace during a media parley to herald this years celebration.
According to him, “Leboku is very important to Yakurr people because it is an opportunity to thank God for changing half yams they planted into a whole whole yam.
“It is an indication that God is with us and authority over all of us. Between February and July, there is usually hunger in our communities.
“So, in August as we celebrate Leboku, we celebrate with our family, friends and well-wishers who have survived the hunger period.
“This will be the best because all plans are going on well. Under this period, we observe a lot and would not see or eat new yam untill Monday, August 19, 2024 when farmers come back from the bush”, the monarch said.
He also thanked the state governor, Senator Bassey Otu for supporting the festival and helping to preserve it.
The Special Adviser on Events Management, Governor’s Office, Cross River state, Mr. Effiong Ekpenyong, on his part said the Leboku International New Yam festival would continue to build a cultural economy for Yakurr communities.
He emphasized that the festival is consistent with the policy direction of the governor which is “people first”, whereby, making this the propeller for collective pursuit towards delivering a people-oriented projects and programs.
In his remark, Commissioner for Tourism, Art and Culture, My Abubakar Ewa, represented by Mr. Dan Akeke promised to ensure a better Leboku festival.
Managing Director, Tourism Bureau, Prince Ojoi Ekpenyong, promised to work with hotels and hospitality providers to ensure standard and safety guests.
