UNYEADA FISHING FESTIVAL HISTORY

Narration by: Gogo Abel Ujile

The Unyeada Fishing Festival, also known as Ijok-irin, is an annual event celebrated by the Unyeada people in the Andoni Local Government of Rivers State The event typically climaxes on the 5th of July at Oyetile Square in Unyeada, the ancestral town of the Unyeada Kingdom in southern Nigeria

The age-old festival holds great significance for the Unyeada people as it marks the end of the fishing season and heralds the beginning of a new one

The history of the festival dates back several decades, with its origins rooted in the community's prowess in fishing practices and customs in the Niger Delta region Unyeada fishing folks, who are found not only in the oil-rich Niger Delta of Nigeria but also in the Bakassi Peninsula, Republic of Cameroon, and other West African countries, gather annually at the end of the fishing season to celebrate their biggest harvest and give thanks for a successful fishing journey. It is a tradition amongst the Unyeada fishermen not to solely eat or sell their biggest catch Instead, such a catch will be preserved, usually smoked, and must be presented before the King (Okaan-Ama) of the Unyeada Kingdom for traditional blessings and recognition during the festival

In recent times, the festival has evolved into a spectacular tourist attraction, bringing together people from far and near to commemorate the rich cultural and fishing heritage of the Unyeada people

During the festival, various activities and events take place, including traditional fishing competitions, boat regattas, cultural performances, music and dance, exhibitions, and food stalls offering fresh seafood dishes

The festival is a time for the community to come together, share stories and experiences, and honor the important role that fishing plays in the town's economy and culture.

The Ijok-irin marks a significant moment in the Unyeada people's calendar, signaling the transition from one fishing season to the next and symbolizing hope and prosperity for the year ahead. It is a time of reflection, gratitude, and celebration for the fishermen and residents of the Unyeada Kingdom

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