39th OBUNEM-EPIE FESTIVAL: HON. TIMOTHY DIEKIVIE ITIEDU CONFERRED CHIEFTAINCY TITLE OF OMO-MAVIE I OF EPIE KINGDOM
July 5, 2025
Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
39th OBUNEM-EPIE FESTIVAL: HON. TIMOTHY DIEKIVIE ITIEDU CONFERRED CHIEFTAINCY TITLE OF OMO-MAVIE I OF EPIE KINGDOM
The vibrant celebration of the 39th Obunem-Epie Festival, Yenegwe-Epie 2025, witnessed a historic moment as the Chairman of Bayelsa State Environmental Sanitation Authority and Director General of United Front for Douye Diri (UFDD), Hon. Timothy Diekivie Itiedu was conferred the prestigious chieftaincy title of Omo-mavie I of Epie Kingdom by His Royal Majesty, King Malla Sasime JP, Obeni-Ibe XI, the revered monarch of the Epie Kingdom.
The title, meaning “A child (man) who means well for his people,” aptly reflects Hon. Timothy’s unwavering commitment to community development and empowerment. Known for his generosity and dedication, Chief Timothy continues to impact lives across the Epie Kingdom and beyond.
As part of his contribution to this year’s festival, High Chief Timothy donated ₦200,000 to the women of each community as they performed traditional dances across the arena, showcasing their cultural heritage. He further announced additional prizes of ₦200,000, ₦150,000, and ₦100,000 for the first, second, and third best-performing communities respectively in the dance competition.
In recognition of his goodwill and contributions, the newly conferred Chief received numerous traditional gifts from community women, including tubers of yam, giant bunches of plantain, baskets of snails, giant catfish, smoked seafood, keg of palm oil, wrappers, and household items, as tokens of appreciation.
Speaking to the press after the event, His Highness, Chief Timothy Diekivie Itiedu expressed his profound gratitude to His Royal Majesty and the entire Epie Kingdom for the honour bestowed upon him. “To whom much is given, much is expected,” he noted. “This honor is not just a title but a renewed call to serve and give more to my people,” he added, pledging to intensify his efforts toward the progress and prosperity of the Epie people.
Present at the celebration were members of the United Front for Douye Diri (UFDD), where he serves as Director General, who turned out in colorful numbers to celebrate with their leader.
The 39th edition of the Obunem-Epie Festival was marked by spectacular traditional dance displays from various communities and thrilling musical performances by talented local artistes, signifying a true celebration of culture, unity, and heritage.
This year’s festival, graciously hosted by Yenegwe-Epie Community, brought together dignitaries, community members, and cultural enthusiasts to witness the richness of Epie heritage and honour deserving sons of the soil.
#UFDDMedia
