Sanwi Chiefdom holds maiden cultural carnival in Taraba
“Kefas pledges support”
OKERAFOR ATHANATIUS, JALINGO
The Sanwi Chiefdom of the Yandang speaking people of Taraba State Northeast Nigeria have held their maiden cultural Carnival, “Sungki Yandang Carnival” in the State.
The Sungki Yandang Carnival with the theme, “Cultural Heritage; a panacea for National Cohesion” drew the attention of dignitaries, within and outside the State.
Speaking at the occasion, held at Government Day Secondary School (GDSS) Sayonti, Lau Local Government Area of the State, the State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the State (SGS) lauded the Yandang people for coming up with such a cultural Carnival.
Kefas who assured that his government will continue to help to ensure that Sungki Yandang cultural festival lasts in the State, further pledged the rehabilitation, reconstruction and resettlement of victims of the unfortunate incidents that happened in the past.
He also pledged to submit the Sungki Yandang Carnival to the National calendar of Festivals for recognition.
Delivering a keynote address, the paramount ruler of Sanwi Chiefdom, HRH, Pastor (Dr.) Daa Haniel Hinlewheni Banti, Kpang Sanwi I of Sanwi Chiefdom said the choice of the 2025 maiden Sungki Yandang Carnival with the theme, “Cultural Heritage; a panacea for National Cohesion” was deliberately taken looking at the times.
He said the occasion showcased unique cultures, traditions, values and history of the Yandang nation globally.
The Monarch added that the mammoth crowd of people from all walks of life were invited to the occasion to experience the beauty and vibrancy of the Yandang culture, promoting ecotourism and national cohesion.
“We (Yandang) are great people of culture, hospitality with excellent etiquette and industry”, he said.
The Royal father however, called on the government of the day to consider the sufferings of the displaced persons across the area with a view to resettling them back to their homes.
The occasion was graced by members of the national Assembly from Taraba North, top government functionaries, Chief of Kaltungo, Gombe State among others traditional rulers from within and outside the State.
Senator Shua’ibu Lau and Chief Gebon Timothy Kataps at the occasion
Our Reporter revealed that GDSS, Sayonti, Mayo-lope, venue of the cultural Carnival was filled to capacity with the Yandang people, dressed in their traditional attire with music of different types and dancing steps.
“The Yandang people in Taraba State started the celebration of Yandang Day in the year, 2004 to 2021 which was later suspended”,
“With the creation of Sanwi Chiefdom, and coronation of Kpan Sanwi, Pst. Dr. Haniel Hinlewheni Banti (JP), (Dash Kpang Sanwi I), he resuscitated and rebranded the name to “Sungki Yandang Cultural Carnival”,
“This is a yearly festival that is done to pray to their ancestors for a fruitful harvest. It is usually done at the beginning of the raining year”, a source said.
