The ancient Kakanda Kingdom in Kogi State came alive during this year’s Eid-el-Kabir celebration as sons and daughters of the kingdom gathered in an atmosphere of unity, cultural pride and renewed hope under the leadership of His Royal Highness, Engineer Farouk Muhammad Kakanda, the 23rd Agankyu of Kakanda Kingdom.
From the early hours of Thursday, the royal palace in Budon became a centre of attraction as members of the Kakanda Traditional Council, adorned in colourful regalia, converged to pay Sallah homage to the revered monarch. The palace grounds echoed with the sounds of traditional drums, songs of praise and cultural displays that reflected the rich heritage of the Kakanda people.
Traditional title holders were not left out of the festivities as they joined the royal procession in honour of the Agankyu. The celebration also drew leaders and representatives of various ethnic communities residing within the kingdom, including Fulani, Yoruba and Hausa groups, further highlighting the spirit of inclusiveness that has become a hallmark of the monarch’s reign.
In his Eid-el-Kabir message, the Agankyu called on his subjects to embrace the virtues of sacrifice, peace, unity and mutual understanding, stressing that the progress of the kingdom depends largely on the collective commitment of its people to harmony and development.
What stood out throughout the celebration was the overwhelming sense of togetherness among the people. Observers noted that since ascending the throne, Engineer Farouk Muhammad Kakanda has succeeded in fostering a renewed sense of unity among Kakanda people both at home and in the diaspora.
Many residents who spoke during the event expressed satisfaction with the direction of the kingdom under the monarch’s leadership. According to them, the kingdom is witnessing a new era marked by greater cohesion, cultural revival and stronger engagement among its people.
The palace drummers and praise singers had a memorable outing as they entertained guests and well-wishers. Children mingled freely with elders in an atmosphere that reflected the communal values for which the Kakanda people are known.
In his remarks, an octogenarian and respected community elder, Alhaji Musa Saba, described the Eid-el-Kabir celebration as a reflection of the growing unity and renewed sense of purpose among the Kakanda people under the leadership of the Agankyu. He noted that the kingdom has witnessed remarkable progress in fostering peace, harmony and cultural renaissance since the monarch ascended the throne.
According to him, the Agankyu’s leadership has strengthened bonds among Kakanda sons and daughters across communities and in the diaspora, creating an atmosphere conducive to collective development.
Alhaji Saba commended the royal father for promoting inclusiveness and preserving the cultural heritage of the kingdom, while urging the people to remain steadfast in their support for initiatives aimed at advancing the welfare and prosperity of the Kakanda nation.
Speaking further on the significance of the occasion, the Nakorji of Kakanda Kingdom, Alhaji Sumasu Aliyu Autanyaya, commended the royal father for his efforts in bringing together Kakanda sons and daughters across geographical and political divides.
He noted that the monarch has demonstrated uncommon commitment to the welfare and unity of his people, adding that his leadership has rekindled hope among many who yearn for a stronger and more prosperous kingdom.
The traditional ruler called on youths, elders and leaders of the Kakanda race to continue supporting the Agankyu in his quest to advance the kingdom. He described the monarch as a visionary leader whose passion for the development and wellbeing of his people remains evident in his actions and engagements.
As the celebrations drew to a close, one message resonated across the kingdom: Kakanda appears to be entering a new chapter, one defined by unity, cultural pride and collective aspiration. For many residents, the grand Eid-el-Kabir celebration was more than a festive gathering—it was a reflection of a kingdom rediscovering its strength under a leadership determined to build bridges, inspire confidence and build a shared future for generations to come.
