The Yala Community in Yala Local Government Area of Cross River State has conferred on Governor Bassey Otu the traditional chieftaincy title of Ukpo Rukpotu Yala (The Heart of Yala Nation).
The title was bestowed on the governor by the Paramount Ruler of Yala, His Royal Majesty Ogamode Eje Ipuole, during the 2026 Yala New Yam Festival, Ihi’Onipipe, held in Okpoma, the ancestral home of the Yala people and headquarters of Yala Local Government Area.
The festival, themed “Unity in Diversity,” attracted prominent sons and daughters of Yala, including Deputy Governor Peter Agbe Odey; Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, representing Cross River North Senatorial District; Godwin Offiono, Member representing Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency, and Yala Local Government Chairman, Fred Okem.
Guests were treated to rich cultural displays and fascinating dance competition featuring various dance troupes, including the popular Ekpatuma Dance Troupe.
The highlight of the occasion was the conferment of the chieftaincy title of “Ukpo Rukpotu Yala” on Governor Otu by HRM Ogamode Eje Ipuole.
The monarch described the title as the highest chieftaincy honour in Yala, saying it was bestowed on Otu in recognition of his administration’s achievements in infrastructure, education, security, healthcare and other areas.
The monarch added that the people of Yala were pleased with the governor’s “People First” leadership approach and also pledged the people’s support for the governor’s 2027 re-election bid, while appealing for more roads and the revitalisation of Okuku Market.
Restoring Cross River
Responding, Governor Otu thanked the Paramount Ruler, the traditional institution and the people of Yala for the honour, commending their contributions to the development of Cross River State.
He also wished the people a happy New Yam Festival and a greater harvest in the years ahead.
In his words: “Mine was to come and felicitate with the people who have identified as bona fide structures and pillars as far as building our state is involved; both at home and abroad. I want to let you know that the energy and investments that sons and daughters of Yala have put in terms of building and moving this state forward is something very commendable.”
Governor Otu also extolled the Chairman of the occasion, Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Clement Ogbeche (rtd.), for his steadfastness and commitment to ensuring that Cross River State moves forward.
Reflecting on the early days of his administration, Governor Otu said his administration inherited a difficult situation but had embarked on a restoration programme. He added that the state’s emergence as an oil-producing state would transform its fortunes.
“We took over this state at a time when things were tight and tough. We came on a restoration package because this state has never lacked vision…and at times I hear people ask: ‘Where is your legacy project?’ What is legacy project when it does not help the people in any way?”
“Today, we’ve restored all our assets that were taken away, and by the time our oil money would have been paid, it’s going to be an entirely different ball game. When I started this battle, they said it was a joke. Today, Cross River State is an oil-producing state.”
The governor assured the people of Yala that his administration would work towards reviving the once-bustling economy through the construction of more roads and the restoration of the lost glory of Okuku Market.
Revered cultural celebration
Speaking with Voice of Nigeria, Chairman of the festival, Air Vice Marshal Clement Ogbeche (rtd.), described Ihi’Onipipe as an important cultural celebration that brings Yala people together and reflects their predominantly agrarian heritage.
He said: “Growing up, Ihi Onipipe is something we look forward to, aside from the Christmas and Easter festivities. It’s a culmination of the hard work of the people resulting in a bumper harvest. It is something even those who don’t go to Church all celebrate together… It unites all of us. It brings food, it brings joy, it brings happiness.
“And it shows the collective wealth of our people because we are predominantly farmers, and it is from there that we express our cultural heritage and our wealth. Farmers are able to pay their children’s school fees, build houses to sustain themselves and their families, and also farm again. It gives some joy knowing this is a product of your hands.”
On the choice of the theme, Unity in Diversity, Ogbeche said it was chosen to promote peace and strengthen unity among the diverse communities that make up Yala Nation.
Ihi’Onipipe Yala is an annual New Yam Festival held on August 30 and 31. The celebration, which dates back to 1975, showcases Yala’s cultural heritage and agricultural traditions, particularly yam cultivation.
