AN illustrious son of Agbor Kingdom and a lover of community development, Comrade Godfrey Onyero has appealed to leaders of the Ika nation to bring back the yearly Ika carnival, which according to him serves as a unifying force for Ika sons and daughters both at home and abroad.
He also sought the intervention of the immediate-past Governor, Sen (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa; and the member representing Ika Federal Constituency, Hon Victor Nwokolo;
Others include the member, representing Ika South Constituency, Hon Festus Okoh; the member, representing Ika North-East, Hon. Marilyn Daramola-Okowa; Ika South Chairman, Jerry Ehiwarior, and the Ika North East Chairman, Monday Odigwe
In an interview with journalists, Onyero noted, “With a deep sense of nostalgia and longing, I appeal to the collective consciousness of all our leaders in Ika land to bring back our shared heritage; Ika carnival that once brought our communities together in joy, celebration, and unity.
“The yearly carnival served as a talent hunt for our young people. It promoted our fundamental cultural heritage. It also instilled a sense of belonging and responsibility in us”.
Continuing, he asked, “Do you remember the vibrant colours, the infectious rhythms, and the electric atmosphere that filled our streets during those unforgettable days? Do you recall the laughter of children, the smiles of elders, and the sense of pride that swelled in our hearts as we showcased our rich culture to the world?”
He said, “The yearly carnival was more than just an event. It was a symbol of our identity, a testament to our resilience, and a celebration of our shared humanity. It brought us together, transcending boundaries and divisions, and reminding us of the power of community and tradition”.
Onyero, however, lamented the neglect of the Ika carnival over the years and recounted how previous editions, during the time of Sebastian Okoh, had shaped the nation’s economy and instilled Ika’s cultural identity in them.
In his words, “But, as the years went by, the carnival slowly faded away, leaving behind only memories and a deep sense of loss. The streets that once pulsed with life and energy now lie silent, the music has stopped, and the laughter has faded”.
“That is why I appeal to you, dear leaders and people of Ika land, to bring back our beloved carnival. Let us revive the tradition that once brought us so much joy and unity. Let us come together once more to celebrate our culture, our heritage, and our shared humanity”.
“Imagine the impact it would have on our community – the economic benefits, the cultural revival, and the sense of pride and ownership that would swell in our hearts. Imagine the smiles on our children’s faces, the joy in our elders’ eyes, and the sense of belonging that would envelop us all”.
“Bringing it back will make Ika land bubble at every yuletide season, motivate Ika sons and daughters in the diaspora to come back home to participate in their cultural heritages. It would also attract investors to our land. It will serve as a platform to revive our language. Our youths will have a viable platform to discover and maximize their talents”.
“Let us work together to make this vision a reality. Let us pool our resources, our talents, and our collective energy to bring back the yearly carnival. Let us show the world what it means to be from Ika – a people of strength, resilience, and joy”.
“Together, we can do this. Together, we achieve it. Let us do it for ourselves, our children, and for the future of our beloved Ika. Bring back the carnival, and let the music, laughter, and joy fill our streets once more”.
