Diri Advocates Peace and Cultural Revival at Yam Festival

During the Ekpetiama Okoled New Yam Festival held in Gbarantoru, Yenagoa Local Government Area, Bayelsa State Governor Senator Douye Diri called for peace and a revival of cultural traditions. He expressed concern over the decline of the Ijaw language and traditional farming practices, which are integral to the Izon cultural heritage.

Diri announced plans to train Ijaw language teachers to ensure the language is taught in public primary schools across the state, emphasizing that without such efforts, the language and culture could become extinct. He urged the community to embrace peace amid chieftaincy crises, particularly in Agudama, Tombia, and Akaibiri, and to promote agricultural activities to contribute to food security.

The event was attended by various dignitaries, including the Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Abraham Ingober, and traditional rulers who praised the festival as a unifying factor for the Ekpetiama people.