The performances offered visitors a fully immersive cultural experience, highlighting traditions that, for generations, were seen only in local village celebrations.
2️⃣ Traditional Heritage on Display
A major highlight of Ika Day was the presentation of Akakum/Afum, a traditional performance art inspired by wind, rhythm, and graceful motion — a signature element of Ika festivities during Christmas.
Performers appeared in striking traditional attire, weaving narratives of unity, communal pride, and ancestral legacy through coordinated displays and immersive storytelling
3️⃣ Celebration of Community Identity
The exhibition showcased the cultural richness of Ika’s three major clans — Ito, Achan, and Ikananang (Odoro) — whose unique traditions collectively shape the identity of the LGA.
Through layered music, dance, chants, and dramatic movement, the event revealed the community’s values, resilience, and artistic brilliance.
4️⃣ Tourism & Visitor Engagement
Hosted at the Village Square, Unity Park, Uyo, the Ika showcase drew tourists, culture lovers, and residents eager to explore authentic heritage expressions.
Beyond the enthralling performances, visitors experienced Ika through local cuisine, handmade crafts, artistic designs, and cultural exchanges — deepening appreciation for the Annang cultural landscape and positioning Ika LGA as a rising cultural tourism destination.
5️⃣ A Standout in the Festival’s LGA Showcase Series
As part of the festival’s daily rotation of Local Government cultural exhibitions, Ika Day emerged as one of the most eccentric and captivating showcases yet.
Day 11 featured masked youngsters dressed like lobsters, moving in perfect synchrony and thrilling the crowd with backflips and fluid choreography synchronized to the deep, resonant Ika drumbeats reverberating through the Village Square.
The Nka Emem Cultural Troupe and Ebede delivered outstanding performances — but the Ika people ultimately owned the day with their powerful songs, electrifying footwork, and sky-reaching artistic expressions.
From cuisine to crafted artifacts to ornate costumes, every element aligned beautifully to project the richness of Ika heritage.
And throughout the celebration, one chant rose above the rest:
“Ika Tii! Kpoi!”
Truly, “Ajen Ika ade Ajen Eka”!
Featured Performances & Dance Troupes
Ilam Nka Emem Cultural Troupe
A standout troupe known across local forums and cultural platforms, Ilam Nka Emem thrilled the audience with rhythmic performances inspired by the life and spirit of Ika’s three clans. Their choreography blended traditional dance steps with powerful communal storytelling expressed through movement and sound.
Masked Acrobatics & Themed Dance Displays
Masked youngsters in vibrant lobster-like costumes delivered one of the most unforgettable sets of the day. Their synchronized dances, acrobatic flips, and dramatic formations flowed seamlessly with the intense percussion of Ika’s signature drums — widely praised as one of the most eccentric performances of the entire festival.
️ Akakum / Afum Movement Art
The Akakum/Afum display celebrated Ika’s unique artistic interpretation of wind and rhythm. Using fluid motion and sweeping gestures, performers recreated cultural symbolism tied to seasons, community, and spiritual connection.
Rhythmic Chanting & Drum Ensembles
The deep, resonant Ika drums formed the heartbeat of the day’s presentations. The chants and percussion didn’t just accompany dancers — they drove the energy, story flow, and crowd engagement throughout the program.
Overall Vibe & Legacy
Ika Day at Christmas Unplugged 2025 was more than a performance lineup — it was a full cultural immersion, inviting festival-goers to feel, hear, and experience the soul of Ika traditions.
With powerful dance troupes, spirited drumming, expressive costumes, and enthusiastic audience reactions, the Ika exhibition became one of the standout moments of the entire 32-day festival.
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