Mbaise New Yam Festival: Akagburuonye’s Position on the Current Developments
Chief Barr. Success Obioma Akagburuonye (Akaraugo I of Mbaise) has heard, listened and read the various discussions and public commentaries surrounding the proposed hosting of the 2026 Mbaise New Yam Festival and the legal proceedings arising therefrom.
It has become necessary to state his position clearly in the interest of peace, unity and the continued progress of his beloved Mbaise nation.
First, he wishes to express his sincere appreciation to those who considered him worthy of the honour of hosting this year’s New Yam Festival in his hometown of Uvuru. He does not take such goodwill and confidence for granted. He remains deeply grateful to everyone who has continued to acknowledge his modest contributions to the development of Mbaise nation, that earned him the reverred title of ‘Akaraugo 1 of Mbaise’ by Mbaise Traditional Rulers Council.
However, he also recognizes that the New Yam Festival is far greater than any individual. It is one of the most treasured cultural and spiritual heritage of Mbaise people. It represents their history, identity, faith, unity and their collective pride. As such, every decision concerning it must be guided by wisdom, broad consultation and respect for the cherished traditions.
Leadership is often tested not during times of celebration but during moments of disagreement. It is easy to identify with one group or another, especially when one stands to gain public recognition. It is far more difficult to step back, refuse to fuel tensions and encourage dialogue instead. That is Akagburuonye’s hallmark.
Those who know him would always point to his record of community development rather than division. Through philanthropy, investment, youth empowerment, healthcare outreaches, and support for churches and social causes, he has built relationships across the three local government areas that make up Mbaise. His interventions have generally been driven by the desire to improve lives instead of creating divisions.
Culture belongs to the people. It should never become an instrument for political competition or personal rivalry. Equally important is the need to respect the judicial process. As a lawyer himself and law-abiding citizen who believes in the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary, he considers it inappropriate to make comments or take actions that may be interpreted as interfering with the judicial process or aligning with any of the parties involved.
His appeal is simple. He respectfully urges every stakeholder, including the respected traditional custodians, cultural organizations, community leaders, youth groups and all sons of Mbaise, to remain calm, exercise restraint and avoid actions or statements capable of deepening the existing divisions.
He is confident that today’s disagreement will eventually pass, but the unity of Mbaise must remain intact and never be sacrificed.
No festival is more important than the peace of Mbaise.
No personal recognition is greater than the unity of Mbaise people.
No temporary disagreement should be allowed to destroy relationships that have taken generations to build.
Mbaise has always been known for hard work, excellence, strong family values and respect for culture. These virtues should continue to define Mbaise, even in moments of disagreement. Differences of opinion are natural in every society, but they should always be resolved through dialogue, mutual respect and lawful processes.
Akaraugo 1 of Mbaise remains committed to supporting every genuine initiative that promotes peace, preserves the cultural heritage, empowers Mbaise people and advances the overall development of Mbaise nation. His vision has always been, and will continue to be, that of a united, peaceful and prosperous Mbaise where every community has a sense of belonging.
He has the confidence that the elders, traditional institutions, socio-cultural organizations and all relevant stakeholders will work together in the overall interest of Mbaise.
May God continue to bless Mbaise, bless Imo State and bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Signed:
Sam Otuonye
Media Aide to
Chief Success Obioma Akagburuonye
Akaraugo I of Mbaise
