A revered community leader, Pa Albert Ekpoh has joined the Okwa Ukpo age grade of Ekuma Community in Abavo, Ika South Local Government Area, Delta. Pa Ekpoh was inducted into the historical age grade on Tuesday, September 2,2025 at the Ogwa of Ekuma Community.
According to the oldest man in Ekuma Community, Pa James Ekpoh, the Okwa Ukpo age grade is the highest out of the seven age grades in the land and it’s traditionally reserved for elders whose ages ranges from 80 years and above. He stated that the induction rites is carried out every three years.
He noted that they are happy and proud to uphold the rich cultural heritage of their place of birth, Ekuma Community. He concluded by congratulating the new Okwa Ukpo inductees as he wished them good health in their selfless service to their community.
The Okibali Uku of Ekuma Community, Mr Benjamin Okonta in an interview shortly after the induction ceremony expressed joy that his community is united and progressive, a development he attributed to their resolve to protect and promote their culture and traditions. He congratulated and wished the newly inducted Okwa Ukpo age members fruitful years as they serve their community.
On his part, the Ohen of Abavo, Chief Odozie Ogiesomwan said that they are proud of their culture and tradition.
According to him, “we hold our culture and traditions strongly because it’s the source of our strength, pride and symbol of unity. My prayer is that our community, Ekuma wil continue to move forward. For the newly inducted Okwa Ukpo age grade members,I wish them more years on earth as they serve their community and humanity”.
One of the children of Pa Albert Ekpoh, Mr Charles Ekpoh said that he was overwhelmed with joy celebrating his father’s elevation into the community leadership hierarchy.He described his father as a truthful, hardworking and loving man who desires the good of others. He prayed that the Almighty God will give him good health and wisdom to excel in his new traditional office.
Speaking also, a grandchild of the Celebrant, Comrade Celestine Adagbon stated that it was a joyful experience as he witnessed the successful induction of his grandfather into the Okwa Ukpo age grade. He expressed optimism that Pa Ekpoh will live up to the expectations of his people of Ekuma Community.
Pa Albert Ekpoh is a great farmer and retiree from the Ministry of Education. In his brief interview with Ika Mirror, he thanked the Almighty God for keeping him alive and in good health to witness his induction into the Okwa Ukpo age grade of his Community. He thanked members of his family and the entire people of Ekuma Community for the recognition and honour.
Present to celebrate with Pa Albert Ekpoh were his family members, community members and friends. Guests were later entertained with food, drinks and a live dance band.
