Azumini Isiokpo Celebrates Annual New Yam Festival in Grand Style.
It was a day of joy, colour, and cultura the pride as the people of Azumini Isiokpo, an ancient community in Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State, gathered to celebrate their annual New Yam Festival a time-honoured tradition symbolizing thanksgiving, unity, and renewal.
The celebration brought together sons and daughters of the community, as well as friends and well-wishers from far and near, led by His Royal Majesty, Oyo VIII, Eze Kingsley Chukwunyere Ogundu (JP), the traditional ruler of Azumini Isiokpo.
The festival featured rich cultural displays from various performing groups, including the famed Ohafia dancers, who thrilled the crowd with their rhythmic steps and energetic drumming. Other local troupes from Azumini also performed, showcasing the vibrant heritage and unity of the community.
A key highlight of the occasion was the symbolic cutting of the new yam by Eze Kingsley Chukwunyere Ogundu (JP), followed by the sharing of portions among the elders of different houses in Azumini Isiokpo a gesture signifying peace, prosperity, and community bonding.
The event attracted several dignitaries and friends of Azumini, including Sir Celestine Omehia, former Governor of Rivers State; Hon. Lee Mebah; Chief Dr. Abiye Sekibo, former Federal Minister; Chief Uche Secondus, former National Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP); and Hon. Austin Opara, former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Their presence added glamour and significance to the celebration, underscoring the community’s growing prominence and deep cultural roots.
Azumini, also known as Mgbu-Oyo Village, is a distinct part of Isiokpo, one of the oldest Ikwerre settlements in Rivers State. The community traces its origin to Chief Oyo, a renowned businessman from Arochukwu, who migrated to Isiokpo over 200 years ago. He first settled in Nkarahia Village before establishing what is today known as Azumini (Mgbu-Oyo).
Over the centuries, Azumini has remained a proud custodian of Ikwerre traditions, with festivals such as the New Yam Festival and the Ekpo/Masquerade Festival serving as symbols of identity, unity, and thanksgiving to the gods for a bountiful harvest and community well-being.
The 2025 edition of the New Yam Festival once again reaffirmed the community’s cultural vibrancy and enduring spirit of togetherness reminding all that while times may change, the heritage of Azumini Isiokpo remains timeless
