Kabba Cultural Festival: Erico Advocates Unity, Togetherness, Says Community Cooperation Drives Development
By Our Correspondent
Chief (Dr.) Joseph Ameh Erico, Founder and Chief Executive Officer/Managing Director of Real Strikers Security Services Nigeria Ltd and All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for Kogi East Senatorial District in the 2027 general elections, has described unity, trust, togetherness and collective commitment as essential ingredients for community development and prosperity.
Erico, who served as Chairman of the Occasion at the 2026 Kabba Cultural Festival Day celebration, stated this during an interview with journalists at the event, stressing that cultural festivals provide opportunities for people to unite, exchange ideas and mobilise collective support for the development of their communities.
According to him, a celebration of this nature represents unity, trust, togetherness, commitment, progress and prosperity, noting that communities can achieve meaningful development when their people come together, listen to one another and work towards common goals.
“A day like this represents unity, a day like this represents trust, togetherness, commitment, progress and prosperity. When we come together, listen to ourselves and mobilise our support, our cities, towns and villages will prosper. That is what I see happening today,” he said.
Speaking on how he felt serving as chairman of an organisation rooted in Kabba, despite coming from the eastern part of Kogi State, Erico said he was humbled and delighted by the responsibility and confidence reposed in him.
He explained that his relationship with the people of Kabba and Okunland was strengthened by longstanding friendships and marital ties to Yoruba land, adding that he felt a strong sense of belonging among the people.
The APC senatorial candidate expressed admiration for the level of organisation, understanding, wisdom and exposure demonstrated by the people of Kabba, saying he was impressed by what he witnessed and would endeavour to replicate the experience in his home community.
“I know my people. I know who they are. They understand whatever they want to pursue and have the wisdom to navigate the process. They also have the necessary exposure. I am happy to see this, and when I return home, I will replicate it,” he stated.
On his political ambition ahead of the 2027 general elections, Erico declared that he was fully prepared for the contest, describing himself as a grassroots politician who understands the importance of being connected to the people.
“I’m fully prepared because I’m on the ground. I’m a grassroots person, and I have what it takes to pursue my political ambition,” he declared.
Reflecting on the history of the Kabba cultural celebration, Erico noted that the initiative began in 1993 through the efforts of a 25-year-old young man and had grown over the years into a major community tradition.
He commended those who sustained the initiative, emphasising the importance of preserving the legacy for future generations.
Erico concluded by urging the people of Kabba to remain united, stressing that the continued success of the community and its cultural heritage depended on cooperation, mutual understanding and a shared commitment to development.
He maintained that the spirit of unity demonstrated at the festival should extend beyond the annual celebration and translate into practical efforts towards the progress and prosperity of Kabba and the entire Okunland.
DemocracyNewslineNewspaper November 8th, 2026


