Abia Govt Endorses Ekponibro Festival, Reaffirms Commitment to Economic Growth through Cultural Tourism | #NwokeukwuMascot

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UMUAHIA – The Abia State Government’s recent endorsement of the Ekponibro Festival in Atani Abam, a cultural event featuring masquerades, has sparked mixed reactions across the state. While officials tout the festival as a strategic move to boost cultural tourism and create jobs, critics argue that the initiative is nothing more than a misplaced priority disguised as “masquerade empowerment” under Governor Alex Otti’s administration.

The state’s Commissioner for Art, Culture, and Creative Economy, Matthew Ekwuribe, announced the government’s support for the festival, stating that it aligns with the administration’s vision of transforming Abia into a global tourist destination. According to him, the endorsement of Ekponibro is part of a broader cultural tourism agenda aimed at job creation and economic revitalization.

“This government is committed to preserving our cultural heritage. By endorsing the Ekponibro Festival, we aim to grow our economy, create jobs, and enhance cultural tourism,” Ekwuribe said.

The festival, known as Ugbo Nmirioma (Boat of the Good River), has historical roots in trade interactions between the Igbo, Efik, and Ibibio ethnic groups. Organizers, including Hon. Jones Ike, General Manager of Abia Newspapers (The Ambassador), emphasized that the event revives an ancient trading tradition and celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit of the Old Bende region.

However, beyond the official narrative, skepticism has emerged. Many residents and political observers question the government’s priorities, given the economic hardship in the state. Critics argue that while cultural promotion is essential, it should not overshadow pressing governance issues such as infrastructure decay, unpaid workers’ salaries, and worsening economic conditions.

A political analyst, who spoke on condition of anonymity, criticized the move as a distraction from real governance.

“This administration promised massive infrastructural transformation, but what we see is a focus on masquerade festivals. Is this the ‘New Abia’ Governor Otti promised?”

Others see the endorsement as a political maneuver aimed at diverting public attention from the administration’s underperformance. Some have even mockingly referred to the initiative as ‘Masquerade Empowerment 2024’, suggesting that it offers little tangible benefit to ordinary Abians struggling with economic realities.

Meanwhile, supporters of the festival, including Chief Kalu Olaka, Chairman of the Organizing Committee, insist that the event holds significant economic potential. He noted that the festival, scheduled for April 19, will attract local and international tourists, with cultural troupes and dignitaries expected in attendance.

“With government backing, this festival will not only preserve our cultural heritage but also create job opportunities for artisans, traders, and the hospitality industry,” Olaka said.

Addressing concerns about the alleged fetish nature of masquerade festivals, Hon. Ike dismissed such views as ignorance.

“Ekponibro Festival is not fetish. In fact, it was our forefathers who first interacted with European missionaries and introduced Christianity to our community,” he argued.

However, critics maintain that while culture should be preserved, governance should prioritize tangible policies that improve citizens’ lives. The question remains: Is Governor Otti’s administration genuinely committed to economic transformation, or is it merely using cultural events as a smokescreen for governance failures?

As the festival date approaches, the debate continues to intensify, with many Abians watching closely to see whether this endorsement will translate into real economic benefits or remain another politically motivated spectacle.

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