PDP Bayelsa Central Senatorial Candidate Akinaka Joins Epie Kingdom to Celebrate 34th Obunem Epie Cultural Festival
The PDP Senatorial Candidate for Bayelsa Central Senatorial District, Richard Erepamo Akinaka, joined the people of Epie Kingdom in celebrating the 34th Obunem Epie Cultural Festival, reaffirming his commitment to preserving Bayelsa’s rich cultural heritage and promoting unity among its people.
As part of the traditional rites marking the festival, Akinaka also paid a visit to the Paramount Ruler of Opolo Community in Yenagoa Local Government Area, His Royal Highness, Chief Eniya Moneyman Nengibo (Ogborogbo XII), whose community hosted this year’s festival.
During the visit to the monarch, he acknowledged the critical role of traditional institutions in fostering peace, unity and grassroots development.
He also visited the Chairman of the 34th Obunem Epie Cultural Festival Planning Committee, Chief Barrister Osomkime Edwin Blankson, commending the committee for the successful organisation of the annual festival and its commitment to preserving the cultural identity of the Epie people.
Akinaka later attended the festival’s grand finale alongside traditional rulers, community leaders, political stakeholders and thousands of sons and daughters of Epie Kingdom.
Speaking at the event, Akinaka described the Obunem Epie Cultural Festival as a powerful expression of the history, identity and unity of the Epie people.
“Our culture is our identity. Festivals like Obunem remind us of who we are, where we come from and the values that bind us together as one people. We must preserve this heritage for future generations,” he said.
He stressed that cultural festivals should serve not only as platforms for celebrating tradition but also as catalysts for economic growth and community development.
“Culture should not end with colourful displays and entertainment. It should be deliberately harnessed to promote tourism, create jobs, empower local businesses and project the rich heritage of Bayelsa to Nigeria and the rest of the world,” Akinaka stated.
The PDP flag-bearer pledged that, if elected to represent Bayelsa Central in the Senate, he would champion policies and attract support for cultural festivals across the district to unlock their economic and tourism potential.
“As your Senator, I will support initiatives that strengthen our traditional institutions and promote cultural festivals as viable tourism products. This is part of my People-Centred Agenda to create opportunities, preserve our heritage and drive sustainable development across Bayelsa Central,” he added.
Akinaka reiterated his commitment to providing responsive representation that prioritises the welfare of the people, protects their cultural identity and delivers meaningful development throughout the senatorial district.
About Author
