Growing up, one of the most beautiful stories our parents told us was the ancestral tale of the Egbira origins; a story of resilience, sacrifice and honor. The journey began with the departure of Inyanka and her followers from Ugbaka, following a succession dispute after the reign of Ohemi Ozegye.
Although Ohetenye remained the undisputed Ohimegye, his time in Ugbaka was short-lived, marked by mounting attacks from the Kwomu’s tribe, who descended from the surrounding hills. Seeking safety, Ohetenye and his people left the lowland plains of Ugbaka and settled briefly in Girinya, along the banks of the River Gurara.
It was there that Ohetenye passed away. His death marked a turning point. From Girinya, his followers pressed on and founded the kingdom of Igu; just as others had done in creating the kingdom of Opanda. And so, from the conflict in Ugbaka arose new centers of Egbira heritage.
In those defining years, one man stood as a beacon of unity and hope for the Egbira race; the late Alhasan Dio, a true hero. His life was defined by sacrifice, wisdom and an unshakable commitment to peace. But even heroes are not spared betrayal; his eventual murder sent shockwaves through the land.
Yet from that tragedy, a boy, young, sharp, and fearless emerged – Alhaji Abdulsalam Ohizi. He was Alhasan Dio’s boy. But he became a leaning shoulder for the race. He grew into a symbol of courage, leading countless battles to protect the Egbira race.
Feared by enemies, respected by allies, he dedicated his life to resolving inter-communal crises; traveling far and wide, settling disputes, uniting factions, and calming the storms of conflict. His power came not from cruelty, but from a deep understanding of the land and its people.
He didn’t just fight; he led the Ozi Idu to conquer. He was strategic, grounded and revered. He became a force none dared to challenge.
Now, as we mourn his passing, our hearts are heavy but proud. The Qur’an tells us, “Every soul shall taste death,” and so he has. But he did not merely live; he lived with purpose. He fought with honor. And he died a hero.
May Allah grant him eternal peace, and grant us the strength to bear this irreplaceable loss, Amin!
– Abdulkadir Bin ABDULMALIK writes from Lokoja.
