Leboku: “Emulate Yakurr’s Spirit”, Otu Urges Other Ethnic Groups in Cross River

Ukorebi Esien | August 23, 2025

UGEP – Governor Bassey Edet Otu has called on ethnic groups across Cross River State to emulate the Yakurr people's spirit of communal unity and cooperation, describing it as a model for sustainable peace and development.

The governor made the call during the 2025 edition of the Leboku International New Yam Festival, held in Ugep, Yakurr Local Government Area, which attracted dignitaries from within and outside the state, as well as from the diaspora.

This year's celebration was remarkable as it marked the first time in several years that a sitting governor and his spouse: Otu and his wife, Bishop (Mrs.) Eyoanwan Out, attended the festival. Their presence was greeted with excitement by the Yakurr people, who consider Leboku one of Nigeria's most celebrated cultural events.

Otu who emphasized on the need for fostering community cooperation as the solution for Sustainable Food Security", reaffirmed his administration's commitment to supporting smallholder farmers through mechanisation, improved seedlings, and farming incentives.

"On the part of the state government, we will not relent in providing tractors, planters, mini-irrigation machines, soft loans, grants, improved seedlings, fertilizers, pesticides, and other incentives to boost crop yield," he said.

The governor also announced plans to renovate the Yakurr Peace Stadium ahead of the next festival, while urging other ethnic groups in the state to draw lessons from Yakurr's culture of communal harmony.

Earlier, Yakurr LGA Chairman, Hon. Inyang Yibala Igri, pledged to use the festival as a platform for agricultural partnerships and inter-community cooperation. Similarly, the Obol Lopon of Ugep and Paramount Ruler of Yakurr Nation, Obol Ofem Ubana, thanked the governor for his presence and for granting Yakurr indigenes representation in government.

Highlights of the festival included the crowning of Mr. and Miss Leboku 2025, presentation of a harvesting truck to the best farmer, and the empowerment of women through initiatives championed by the governor's wife.

With its blend of cultural pride and economic relevance, Leboku continues to reinforce Cross River's image as a hub of heritage, unity, and agro-economic potential.