The ancient Ahoada Town Playground came alive on Saturday, June 7, 2025, as His Imperial Majesty, Eze Sir Amb. Kelvin Ngozi Anugwo, PhD, DSSRS ACTI, FNIM MNIMN SFALPP, Eze Ekpeye Logbo III, Akalaka XII, graced and honoured the UPKUMA ETA (Opening wrestling) ceremony of the Igbu Ehuda 2025.
The traditional wrestling event, which has become a revered cultural fixture in Ekpeye land, was hosted by the Eze Igbu Ehuda, His Royal Majesty Eze Noble Friday Uwoh (CSP Rtd). The arena was electrified with excitement, showcasing the richness of Ekpeye culture through spirited wrestling bouts, traditional music, dance, and displays of age-old customs.
Eze Ekpeye Logbo III, in his opening remark, expressed profound gratitude to Eze Igbu Ehuda for his unwavering commitment to the preservation and promotion of Ekpeye cultural heritage. He lauded the host monarch’s passion and leadership in keeping alive the traditions that bind the people together.
Subsequently, the revered Ekpeye paramount ruler also extended his appreciation to the vibrant youths of Ehuda and the surrounding communities. For channelling their energy and passion towards upholding and celebrating indigenous practices.
He said, “The active involvement of our youth in cultural events such as this is a testimony to a brighter future for Ekpeye land”. The event attracted a distinguished gathering of traditional rulers from Ekpeye and neighbouring kingdoms, political office holders, and captains of industry.
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Like, His Imperial Majesty, Eze Sir Amb. Kelvin Ngozi Anugwo PhD DSSRS ACTI FNIM MNIMN SFALPP Eze Ekpeye Logbo III, Akalaka XII, HRM Eze. Barr. Onyekach Eze Omuma Kingdom, HRM, Eze Felix Enene Otuwarikpo PhD Fnipr-Nye Udu Ele Upata Lowetu II. HRM Eze. Hon. Cassidy W. Ikegbidi-Eze Igbu Akoh II, HRM Eze. Hon . Augustine Maxwell Okpokiri-Eze Igbu Ubie IV. HRM Noble Friday Uwoh (CSP RTD) Eze Igbu Ehuda V. HRM Eze Anderson Okpara Egbuluka-Eze Igbu Ugbobi II. HRH Eze Prince Ehie Eze Igbu Orlukwor II.
Others include Hon. Beneath Happy, one-time CTC Ahoada East LGA. Hon. Ipalibo Banigo- Senator representing Rivers West, represented by High Com. Sunny Ojimini. Hon. Samuel Eyiba- former Commissioner, Chieftaincy and Local Government Affairs, Rivers State. Dr. Uche Okorji- Chairman of the occasion, Hon. Chigbo Sam Eligwe, PhD- former Member RSHA Ahoada West State Constituency; High Chief Elems Eligwe and other dignitaries whose presence added colour and prestige to the ceremony. Highlighting the cultural significance and unity among the people of Ekpeye.
As the drummers beat and the wrestlers displayed strength and skill, the Igbu Ehuda Wrestling Competition 2025 not only entertained but also reaffirmed the pride of a people rooted in tradition and culture.
The day ended with heartfelt blessings from the monarchs and enthusiastic cheers from the crowd. Marking another successful celebration of Ekpeye identity and heritage.
