Tompolo Returns to the Spotlight as Gbaramatu Kingdom Unleashes 17th Survival Day Celebration
..........Oporoza Set for Grand 17th Gbaramatu Strafe Survival Day Celebration as Tompolo, Monarch, Top Dignitaries Storm Delta
By Passman Akpos
The ancient community of Oporoza, the traditional headquarters of Gbaramatu Kingdom in Delta State, is set to come alive on Friday, May 15, 2026, as it hosts the 17th Edition of the Gbaramatu Strafe Survival Day Celebration, a major cultural event dedicated to honoring the resilience, history, and rich heritage of the Gbaramatu people.
In an official press release issued by the Organizing Committee, the leadership and people of Oporoza Community formally invited the general public, sons and daughters of Ijaw nation, cultural enthusiasts, and notable stakeholders from across Nigeria to witness the grand annual celebration scheduled to take place at the Oporoza Playground by 10:00 AM prompt.
The event, regarded as one of the most significant cultural festivals in the Niger Delta region, serves as a platform for preserving and showcasing the traditions, values, and identity of the Gbaramatu Kingdom.
This year’s celebration will be hosted by His Royal Majesty, Oboro Gbaraun II, Agadagba Aketekpe, the Pere of Gbaramatu Kingdom, alongside respected traditional rulers, political leaders, and influential stakeholders.
Special Guest of Honour for the occasion is High Chief Dr. Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, whose presence is expected to attract widespread attention across the Niger Delta and beyond.
Several dignitaries including Chief Guwor Emomotimi Dennis, Engr. Matthew Tonlagha, Executive Director of Niger Delta Development Commission, Chief Kestin Pondi, Comr. Emmanuel Ebigbanale, and Chief James Pugo Demebi are also expected to grace the occasion.
Activities lined up for the celebration include the traditional Cultural Procession (Ogele), Masquerade Display, Men Ogele Performance, Women Ogele Performance, Women Tug of War, and various traditional cultural dance performances aimed at promoting the deep-rooted customs of the Ijaw people.
Entertainment for the event will be provided by Prince Smally, adding musical excitement to what promises to be a colorful and memorable gathering.
The committee emphasized that the Gbaramatu Strafe Survival Day Celebration is more than just a festival, describing it as a symbol of unity, resistance, cultural pride, and the enduring spirit of the Gbaramatu people.
Residents, visitors, and lovers of cultural heritage have been encouraged to attend and participate fully in the event, which continues to strengthen communal bonds and preserve the identity of one of the Niger Delta’s most historic kingdoms.
The celebration is proudly supported by Gbaramatu Voice TV� under the cultural slogan: “Kiogbene Ni Totobou!”
