The Ebonyi State Government is to build cultural centres in all parts of the state to check the dwindling fortunes of tradition and culture in the society.

The Governor of the state, Mr Martin Elechi said this in Onueke, headquarters of Ezza South Local Government Area, during the celebration of Oke Aku New Yam festival of the Ezza communities.

Elechi, who was represented by his deputy, Prof. Chigozie Ogbu, said the centres would help in propagating cultural values, especially to the young ones.

"Due to the upsurge in social vices and crime, there is the need to go back to the cultural ways of doing things. Culture will help in repositioning our minds to distinguish good from evil," he said.

Elechi promised the Ezza communities that the cultural centres being built in their area would soon be completed.

He commended them for uplifting their heritage by religiously observing the annual event, noting that it had always served as an avenue for the promotion of peace and unity among the people.

He asked them to ensure that whatever differences they have with their brothers in other parts of the state is resolved amicably in the interest of growth and development.

Mr Marcellinus Nwokporo, Chairman of Ezza South Local Government Area, noted that the event marked the end of the planting season and the celebration the new yam in the entire Ezza communities.

"It is a period of celebrating life and peace enjoyed by the people throughout the past year. It also signifies the end and the beginning of a new year in Ezza," he said.

He noted that this year's celebration was unique because it called for a sober reflection on some of the socio-economic and political problems confronting the people.