Members of the Eyo Ekpo Royal Family on Saturday gathered in Okoyong in Odukpani LGA to commemorate their Family Day, marking 131 years since the departure of their patriarch, Eyo Ekpo Ekpo Akiba Akak, and celebrating the enduring legacy of the family ancestry NEGROIDHAVEN can report.
The event, which brought together family members, elders, and invited guests, focused on reflections about ancestry, lineage, unity, and the values bequeathed by the founding patriarch of the Eyo Ekpo family.
Speaking at the ceremony, head of the Eyo Ekpo Family, Deno Enuo Dr Okon Eyo Okon-Eyo, described the late patriarch as a man guided by strong moral principles, noting that Eyo Ekpo Ekpo Akiba Akak was known for rejecting slavery at a time when the practice was common among his contemporaries. According to him, the patriarch believed in fairness, love, and equal treatment of all, values that continue to shape the family.
Dr. Okon-Eyo also highlighted what he described as the educational progress of the family, stating that members of the executive of the Eyo Ekpo Royal Family possess postgraduate qualifications. He added that the family’s emphasis on discipline and enterprise has contributed to the stability and success of both male and female descendants in their various households.
Also speaking, Chairman of the 2025 Eyo Ekpo Day Celebration, Deno Enuo Ita Okon Ebe of LNG Bonny, Rivers state, urged family members to remain united and committed to preserving their heritage. He described the event as a significant occasion to acknowledge ancestry and celebrate the collective achievements of the descendants of Eyo Ekpo.
Earlier, Chairman of the Lands Committee and Vice Chairman of the Eyo Ekpo General Assembly, Christ Ambassador Effiong Ekpo Ekpo, said the celebration was dedicated to honouring ancestry and the historical roots of the family. He noted that the Eyo Ekpo lineage controls 13 villages, a feat he described as rare, and stressed that ancestry and heritage cannot be acquired or purchased.
He further drew attention to ongoing infrastructural developments in the area, noting that sections of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway pass through three villages of the Eyo Ekpo family including Usung Nkita, Esuk Ekóm I and Esuk Ekóm II, which he said reflects the growing relevance of the ancestral lands.
Special Guest of Honour, Matriarch Christ Shepherd Winifred Okafor, commended the unity displayed by the Eyo Ekpo Royal Family, describing it as exemplary and worthy of emulation by other families.
The ceremony featured traditional rites, including libation performed by the head of the Eyo Ekpo Family, and Akparamkpa traditional dance performance in honour of the ancestors and in reaffirmation of the family’s cultural heritage.
Dr. Ekpenyong Eyo lta who chairs the Eyo Ekpo General Assembly gave vote of thanks appreciating every participant for a successful celebration while urging them to sustain the family values.
