Ada Bekwarra Honors Ironbar, Higgins, Others at 2025 New Yam Festival
By Missang Akpet
The Ada Ebekwarra II, Signor Omang Idiege, has congratulated Chief of Staff to the Cross River State Governor, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar, Chief Peter Higgins, Chief Peter Ojie, Dr. Emana Amawhe, Martha Agba, and other awardees at the 2025 Bekwarra New Yam Festival known in local parlance as Ipem Ihihe.
Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar was conferred with the title Okpenihe I of Bekwarra (One Who Unifies People), while Chief Peter Higgins received the title Ukereni I of Bekwarra (People’s Helper).
Other awardees were recognized for their valuable contributions to good governance, political stability, and the development of the state.
Speaking while hosting dignitaries and political stalwarts in his country home, Ada Ebekwarra described the awardees as pillars of democracy in Cross River State, emphasizing their role in fostering political stability and growth.
“The Chief of Staff is a bridge builder. His remarkable contributions to the state’s growth and development have continually earned him accolades, underscoring his integral role in supporting Governor Otu’s policies and initiatives as a trusted aide,” Idiege said.
The Ada Ebekwarra also thanked the awardees for taking time to celebrate Ipem Ihihe, highlighting that their presence reinforces the spirit of unity and solidarity within the state.
Ipem Ihihe is an annual cultural festival in Bekwarra that marks the beginning of the harvest season for local farmers.
The festival traditionally brings together sons and daughters of Bekwarra, political stakeholders, and well-wishers to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the Bekwarra nation.
Other dignitaries in attendance included the State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Barr. Alphonsus Ogar Eba; Member representing Obudu, Bekwarra, Obanliju, Hon. Peter Akpanke; Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Sylvester Agabi; and Commissioner for Youths, Barr. Ijom Ukam, among others.
