The Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Ihuoma Emeruwa, has called on the people of Abaukwu and Abia State at large to embrace unity, peace and collective responsibility as essential ingredients for sustaining good governance and community development.
Emeruwa made the call while speaking as a special guest at the 2026 Abaukwu New Yam Festival, popularly known as Iri Ji Ohuru, held at the Eze Ukwu Royal Palace in Abaukwu, Aba South Local Government Area of Abia State.
The Speaker described the annual celebration as more than a cultural event, noting that it symbolises gratitude to God, the preservation of Igbo cultural heritage and the strengthening of unity among the people.
“Our culture is our identity. The New Yam Festival reminds us of who we are—a hardworking, grateful, and united people. As we celebrate the abundance of the harvest, let us also harvest unity, peace, and togetherness,” Emeruwa stated.
He emphasised that meaningful development can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace and unity, urging residents to support traditional institutions, avoid divisive tendencies and work collectively towards the progress of their community.
Speaking on governance, Emeruwa reaffirmed the commitment of the 8th Abia State House of Assembly under his leadership to enacting people-oriented legislation and providing legislative support for the administration of Governor Alex Otti.
He maintained that the infrastructural transformation, improved security and growing investor confidence being witnessed across Aba South and other parts of Abia State were products of good governance that required the collective support of residents to be sustained.
“The preservation of our cultural heritage and the Abia of our dream—the Aba of our pride—is possible if we stand together. Government alone cannot do it. Let us all, at home and in the diaspora, support this government that has shown sincerity of purpose,” he added.
The Speaker commended the traditional ruler of Aba Ukwu Autonomous Community, HRM Eze Monday Ugbor, Omere Oha II, the festival planning committee and the entire community for their commitment to preserving Igbo cultural traditions.
He also prayed for a bountiful harvest, long life and prosperity for the people while assuring them of his continued support and effective representation.
In his remarks, the traditional ruler, Eze Monday Ugbor, described Aba Ukwu as a peaceful, united and culturally rich community committed to preserving its heritage while embracing development.
The monarch expressed appreciation to Speaker Emeruwa and other dignitaries who attended the celebration.
He also commended Governor Alex Otti for what he described as transformative leadership, particularly the ongoing infrastructural development across Aba South Local Government Area.
Eze Ugbor pledged the community’s continued support for Governor Otti and Speaker Emeruwa ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a strong declaration of political support, the monarch assured the Governor and Speaker that the community would mobilise votes for their re-election, stating that “27 and a half out of the 28 polling units” in Abaukwu would be delivered in their favour.
The festival featured traditional kolanut breaking, conferment of chieftaincy titles, display of new yams, cultural dances and other activities showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the community.
Among the dignitaries who attended the celebration were the member representing Aba North and Aba South Federal Constituency, Hon. Mascot Ikwechegh; the Mayor of Aba South Local Government Area, Hon. Anyawu Obialor; Ambassador Mike Onyedikachi Okoro, popularly known as Vote for Jesus; the Special Adviser on Political Matters to the Speaker, Mr. Paul Emeruwa; and the Speaker’s Liaison Officer, Mr. Macdonald Nwankwo.
The event attracted political leaders, traditional rulers, community stakeholders and cultural enthusiasts who gathered to celebrate the harvest season and promote unity among the people of Abaukwu.
