Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area brought life, colour, and deep cultural pride to the Christmas Unplugged Village Square on 9 December 2025. Their outing was not just a performance; it was a well-rooted expression of history, unity, and identity that strengthened Akwa Ibom’s growing reputation as a global cultural destination.
Created on 1 October 1996, Ibesikpo Asutan stands on rich ancestral foundations linked to Asikpo Nnakada of Usakedet. The LGA’s seventy nine villages, bordered by Uyo, Nsit Atai, Nsit Ibom, and Nsit Ubium, share a long history of resilience, strong Christian values, and community cohesion. Since the arrival of Christianity in 1917, the people have maintained a tradition of unity that continues to shape their social and cultural life.
Executive Chairman, Rt. Hon. Evang. Edidiong Inyang, described the area as “a broom that cannot be broken,” a metaphor that reflects their strength in togetherness. The Chairman highlighted iconic symbols such as the Lion, known as Asutan Ekpe, the Cow representing Ibesikpo, and the Green River which holds ecological and spiritual significance for the people. He also recognized Obong Effiong Eyo, popularly known as Eyo Uyo, who suggested the name “Akwa Ibom,” a contribution that remains part of the State’s identity.
As dignitaries settled into their seats, the Village Square transformed into a vibrant cultural arena. The Hon. Commissioner for Budget and Town Planning, Dr. Nsikan Linus Akang, expressed gratitude for the favourable weather and commended Governor Pastor Umo Eno for using Christmas Unplugged to rebuild unity and celebrate ancestral heritage across the State. Former Speaker, Dr. Aniekan Uko, added his voice, praising the Governor’s leadership and acknowledging the Hon. Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Anieti Udofia, for advancing the State’s tourism vision with purpose.
The performances that followed were nothing short of captivating. Asong, the famous drum historically exported from Ibesikpo Asutan, filled the air with deep, resonant rhythms. Groups presented various traditional acts such as abiokpo and other heritage dances that reflected the area’s long standing mastery of music and movement.
Food also played a central role in the celebration. Visitors enjoyed a variety of indigenous dishes including Editan Etike, Efere Etike, Udep Utim, Ikpafi Ntueni ye Fufu, and Oto Mboro. These meals reminded guests that culture is not only danced or sung but also tasted and shared, as confirmed by Akwa Ibom Trending.
The event drew respected figures such as Hon. Elder Stephen Ben Samuel, Royal Fathers, Elder Effiong Essien and wife, Mr. Emmanuel Mbiam, Mr. Ubong Ekpe, and council members who all came to honour their people.
The evening reached its peak when the Ibesikpo Asutan Ekpe troupe took the stage. Their display was powerful, coordinated, and deeply symbolic. It served as a reminder that Akwa Ibom culture remains vibrant, dynamic, and proudly exportable to the world.
Ibesikpo Asutan Day stood out as one of the most memorable experiences at Christmas Unplugged 2025, further affirming the LGA’s place as a strong cultural force in Akwa Ibom State.
Comments
Post a Comment