CARNIRIV: LGs Exhibit Rivers Cultural Heritage

The Carnival Village at Elekahia was agog with cultural festivities yesterday as the 23 Local Government areas of the state showcased art and culture at the ongoing Rivers Canrival (CANIRIV 2014).
The events which included cultural Art Exhibition and Ekere Rhythm of the Part 1 as part of the events marking this year’s CARNIRIV tagged ONE LOVE, One People.
Most of the LGAs presented their Acquatic main stay, hunting, farming etc.
Speaking with The Tide at the event, the Gbenemene Gokana noted that the people of Gokana are well endowed in nature and their occupation include fishing, farming, hunting and part of the products were exhibited to the administration of the guests.
Mr. Harold Idaere Faka Fyneface the representative of Okrika Local Government explained that the occupation of his people was basically fishing and subsistence farming adding that Okrika people were known for their cultural heritage and tourism.
He stressed that Okrika participated in the Nothinghill carnival last year where they showcased their famous masquerade called “Okpo”.
He also noted that Okrika LGA are the defending champions having won the first position in the 2013 edition of the CARNIRIV and has remained the champions since 2010 edition.
He expressed hope that the LGA will still win the first position this year.
Other LGAs that participated in the arts exhibition include Ikwerre, Khana, Obio/Akpor, ONELGA, Ogu/Bolo, Opobo/Nkoro, Oyigbo, Tai, among others.
Another event that held the spectators spell bound was the Ekere Rhythm of the tribes where the cultural dancers showed the best of their talents.
The LGAs that featured at the knock out stage yesterday include Abua/Odual, Khana, Obio/Akpor, Degema, ONELGA, Etche, Oyigbo among others.
Etche and Degema were absent.
The event continues today with Bonny, ASALGA, Ahoada East, Gokana, Eleme, Ikwerre, PHALGA, Andoni Ahoada West. The overall winners will be announced later.
The day also witnessed Hosh Jam that paraded the best artistes in the Nigerian music industry, while today will witness international Acquatic Fiesta (IAF) at the Tourist beach Port Harcourt followed by Ekere Phythm of the tribes part 2 at the Carnival village as well as Bamfest at the same venue.

Jacob Obinna