Like a drama, the three days burial ceremony of late. Chief Thomas Osen Ekpemupolo, father of Tompolo became a cultural festival in Gbaramatu Kingdom as cultural troupes from all over Niger Delta stormed Okerenkoko to exhibit their rich cultural heritage.
In honour of the Tunteriwei of Gbaramatu Kingdom, over 30 different cultural groups was allegedly in the Kingdom for different exhibition, prominent among them where the high profiled Egbelegbele cultural troupe of Amassoma, Bayelsa State, it was learnt that this dance is an ancient one that the people have maintained from generation to generation, it was further revealed to Gbaramatu Voice Newspaper that only female virgins from Amassoma are exposed to this rare dance, once a girl developed beyond that, her services in the group is no longer needed by the custodians of the cultural troupe.
It was however alleged that the people of Amassoma owe the ancient tradition so dearly as one of their most cherished cultural legacy that is being passed on from generation to generation.
Their exhibitions are extraordinary and beyond a mere dance, it seemingly have a spiritual blend as they thrilled the audience to maximum satisfaction with their very strange moves.
On their part, the Mr. Godspower cultural troupe from Isaba Kingdom in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State also entertained the throng of people overwhelmingly as voices and demonstrations from the audience where heard obviously as a testament for their appreciation on the cultural group.
The event also features the powerful exhibition of a drama group from the Bayelsa state ministry of arts and culture, their shrill and sonorous voice garnished with carefully planed songs with deep meaning sends everyone astonishing.
However, Gbaramatu Voice learnt that each song from the group is being dramatized, it was a presentation of a performance detailing the life time of late. Chief Thomas, Tompolo’s father, his personality, struggles and the role of Ekpemupolo dynasty in the liberation struggle of his people.
Others like the Garri boys of Amba in Burutu Community came to exhibit their creativity. The attires and coordination of this group is one of humour.
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