Concerned citizens that converged from various cultural groups in Ika land have demanded that those who stopped the famous Ika Carnival from holding last year should desist else the gods of the land will fight them.
The group made the demand in a road rally held on Thursday morning, January 18, 2018 and was powered by Ni Ika Rinma Cultural Dance Group.
The groups were captured carrying banners with inscriptions “Bring Back Ika Carnival” along Old Lagos/Asaba Road among other streets within Ika Boji-Boji metropolis.
Speaking to newsmen during the peaceful protest, the director of the organizing group, Mr. Solomon Onoroji, explained that the rally was aimed at calling the attention of those against the Ika Carnival or its sponsor, Mr. Sebastine Okoh to hold their peace and allow the carnival to continue.
He expressed sadness, asking that why should such a very important event which has proved its worth for the two times it was held by some powers within knowing full well that the carnival is being used to bring greater unity, love and peace among the people of Ika communities, its neighbours, the state and the nation at large.
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According to him, “we are angry because the only event celebrating our heritage is being frustrated by some selfish people. “Ika Carnival so far has created an avenue for our people in the Diaspora to join their family at home to celebrate their culture and the yuletide season.
“It made the different cultural groups, masquerades from the villages that make up Ika nation as well as other entertainers such as musicians and comedians who participated at the event to showcase their talents to the people. Majority of them even went home with gift items and cash prices. This, thus far, is promoting development to which can enhance tourism potentials of Ika ethnic nationality.”
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He concluded by urging the stakeholders and communities in Ika land to join hand and support Mr. Sebastine Okoh in order to elevate the Ika carnival and not allow it to go into oblivion through the effort of those he described as selfish individuals or groups that does not mean well for Ika nation.
BY MARVIN ENYOSA