In a bold and patriotic appeal, a young political activist and youth advocate, Edison Atumeyi Edime, has called on the Attah of Igala Kingdom, Dr. Matthew Alaji Opaluwa, alongside all traditional chiefs and custodians of Igala heritage, to rise and address the growing concerns of political violence and thuggery among Igala youths.
In a statement on Thursday, the young activist described the Attah as the spiritual and cultural center of Igala identity, whose voice carries unmatched authority across the entire kingdom. He stressed that at this critical point in Kogi State’s political climate, the intervention of the Attah and the traditional council is not only necessary but urgent.
He stated that “the Attah of Igala Kingdom is a symbol of unity, peace, and wisdom. His voice is capable of calming tensions and redirecting our youths back to the path of discipline and dignity. I am calling on His Royal Majesty to speak to the youths—because when the Attah speaks, the entire Igala nation listens.”
He condemned the growing trend where politicians recruit young people as instruments of destruction, noting that such actions are robbing the kingdom of its future leaders, scholars, builders, and innovators.
The activist added that “Igala youths must understand that political violence is not bravery, and thuggery is not empowerment. They are being used, discarded, and forgotten after elections. We need our traditional leaders—our Attah, our chiefs, our elders—to guide these young minds back to purpose, education, and self-development.”
He also urged district heads, clan elders, and local chiefs to organize community dialogues, peace lectures, and youth mentorship programs to cleanse the land of this rising wave of political manipulation.
He concluded with a call for unity:
“Let the Attah speak. Let the chiefs speak. Let Igala youths listen. We must reject violence and embrace a future built on peace, enlightenment, and collective progress. The destiny of Igala nation is too precious to be wasted on the political ambitions of a few.”w
