The Kogi State Council of Chiefs has held a valedictory session in honour of the late Attah Igala, Dr Michael Ameh Oboni II.
In his address, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Barr. Salami Momodu Ozigi said that the demise of the late royal father has created a huge vacuum that would be difficult to fill within the traditional institution of the state.
He described the late ruler as an upright and courageous leader who was a great pillar for the Governor Yahaya Bello’s led administration since its inception.
He noted that the governor enjoyed a very robust relationship with the royal majesty before his demise.
The Commissioner said it was unfortunate that the state lost the royal father when his counsel and services were mostly needed.
He said the government and people of his domain will take solace in the fact that during his years on the throne he did his best to uphold the tenets of his tradition and effectively united the State Council of Chiefs.
Ozigi affirmed that the present administration places high premium on the prime positions of the royal fathers in the society, promising that government will continue to accord their welfare the topmost priority.
The Commissioner announced the State Government’s approval of the appointment of the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, Dr. Ado Ibrahim as the Acting President, Kogi State Council of Chiefs and the Ejeh of Dekina, Alh. Usman Obaje as Acting Chairman Igala Area Traditional Council.
The Commissioner also announced the appointment of Mr. Samson Ekele, as the Achadu Attah as part of the process of appointing the new Attah of Igala Kingdom while Alhaji Salihu Idaji was announced as the rightful Onu Itobe as declared by a court of competent jurisdiction.
In his remark, the Ohinoyi of Ebira Land, HRH Dr. Ado Ibrahim eulogized the late Attah of Igala as a God fearing leader who only concerned himself with promoting peace and the good interest of his people.
The Ohinoyi appreciated the State Government under the leadership of Governor Bello for creating an enabling environment for harmonious relationship between government and the traditional institution which he said has engendered peace in the state.
The Ohinoyi will function in his new capacity pending the appointment of a new Attah Igala.
