Yakurr

The Yakurr are a Cross River people found mainly around Ugep, Idomi, Ekori, Nko, Mkpani and neighbouring communities in Cross River State. Their language is commonly known as Lokaa.

Yakurr history is tied to settlement in the Cross River interior and to traditions of migration, farming and local town confederations. Ugep is one of the best-known Yakurr centres and hosts major cultural ceremonies.

Yakurr society is organised through towns, lineages, elders, age grades, traditional rulers and title associations. Age-grade institutions are especially important in community labour and social order.

Traditional Yakurr religion includes ancestral veneration, land and fertility rites, and ritual institutions connected with community protection. Christianity is now widespread, while customary festivals remain central to identity.

Yakurr culture is known for the Leboku New Yam Festival in Ugep, age-grade displays, dance, masquerades and elaborate marriage ceremonies. The festival is one of Cross River State's notable cultural events.