The history of Nwatam in Ndoki land is a story of mystery, artistry, and deep cultural pride.
Said to have originated from Mkpajaekere Ndoki in Ikwueke, this unique masquerade performance found its permanent home in Obunku Ugbor during the late 1940s and early 1950s, Hitvibz reports
Pioneers of Nwatam Performance in Obunku Ugbor
Nwatam is far more than a dance; it is a living symbol of identity, communal entertainment and a huge festival.
At the heart of the performance is a wooden-carved figure, adorned with ubo draped in black fabric, accompanied by agwo and emere, creating an awe-inspiring presence that captures the imagination of all who witness it.
In Obunku Ugbor, the first to showcase Nwatam was Papa Dee Ibe Nwankwo, a vibrant performer celebrated for his energy and mastery of the craft.
What set the Obunku Ugbor version apart was not only the craftsmanship of the masquerade itself but also the caliber of personalities animating it.
Members of the Uke Mkpa, who accompanied Nwatam wherever it performed, elevated the spectacle with grandeur.
Legendary figures such as Papa Dee Uzoma Akara, Chief Lawrence Nwaubani, Chief Sunny Meshack Hart, Dee Chigbo Nwankwo, Kakanma, and Dee Chiwuike Nwagbara transformed Nwatam into a cultural attraction that drew admiration far and wide.
The performance was enhanced by side attractions that added flair and excitement.
Dee Okere Akasa’s captivating dance steps and Kakanma’s Pakopako mask brought humour, mystery, and vibrancy to the arena.
Oral history recalls astonishing feats performed by Nwatam, such as uprooting Nshi, leaving audiences spellbound.
Performers like Dee Aaron, Dee Alali, Late Sunny Okere, and Late Chief Millers showcased Nwatam with elegance and precision, ensuring every outing was memorable.
Cultural Innovation and Expansion in the 1980s
By the 1980s, innovation fuelled the creation of Ejesilem, a celebrated cultural group from Port Harcourt led by Obunku men including Dee Odozie, Dee Alali, Dee Uzoma Ekeke, Dee Eziuche, Dee Onwukwe, Dee Ikpeama, Dee Uzoma Akara, and Dee Sunny Nwachukwu.
Their performances gained recognition across Ndoki land, and their travels were made even more spectacular with Chief E. C. Adiele’s truck, fondly known as “Obunku Wasoola.”
Between 1983 and 1984, the younger generation launched another cultural movement, Ogelemkpa, spearheaded by visionaries like Dee Chimeziri, Dee Sunny Jumbo, Dee Chijioke Ojunta, Chief Millers, Dee Onyemachi, Dee Atulegwu na Ohanso, and Dee Richard Nwaobianyi.
Its debut attracted crowds from Opobo, with Dee Sunny Jumbo presenting the Ugbor Ogelemkpa in a way that earned immediate respect across communities.
Under Dee Atulegwu’s guidance, Ogelemkpa expanded to Ohanso, extending Obunku Ugbor’s cultural influence beyond its borders.
Today, Obunku Ugbor remains the unrivalled custodian of Nwatam in the whole of Ndoki land preserving its legacy while continuing to captivate new audiences.
This heritage defines the community’s identity and reinforces its prominence in Ndoki land and beyond.
Looking ahead, preparations are underway for the grand Nwatam Festival in Obunku Ugbor, set for 2nd January 2026.
The Obunku Voices promise the most spectacular Nwatam display ever, with the festival going live for the world to witness for the very first time.
Stay connected as we continue to uncover and celebrate the rich cultural history of Nwatam Ndoki, a treasure of the people of Obunku in Ukwa East local government area of Abia state and a living symbol of Nigerian artistry.
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Last Updated on October 22, 2025 7:51 am by Hitvibz Media
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