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By Amuda Dan Sulaiman FAB
The ancient city of Lokoja, the Kogi State capital stood still on Tuesday for the turbaning of Muhammed Baba Idanako a.k.a Shata as the ‘Sarkin Wasa Lokoja’ by the Miagari of Lokoja, His Royal Majesty, Muhammed Kabir.
Major streets in the ancient city, witnessed heavy traffic jam as the convoy of Idanako snaked through Karaworo and Cantonment axis of the city where people lined up the streets to welcome the new traditional title holder.
The turbaning ceremony followed the approval of the Maigari of Lokoja after the completion of due process by the king makers.
The new ‘Sarkin Wasa Lokoja’ in an open roof Lexus Sport Utility Vehicle raising his clutched fists to acknowledge cheers from people after about an hour drive to get to the palace where he will be turbaned.
The turbaning ceremony was followed by the symbolic traditional decoration of the ‘ Sarkin Wasa Lokoja’ with beads.
Traditional gunshots rented the air by Lokoja traditionalists heralding the reign of the new ‘Sarkin Wasa Lokoja’ thus signaling the completion of the traditional rights.
Speaking after the turbaning ceremony, Member of House of Representatives, representing Lokoja/Kogi federal constituency, Hon. Buba Jibril stated that the day is an historical day in the ancient town.
Jibril who received praises from the gathering upon entering the venue of the event said, “I salute the courage and understanding of all, this day is historic in the sense that our Royal Father turbaned Idanako as the ‘Sarkin Wasa Lokoja’.
“We need the cooperation of all and sundry, I call on everybody to join hands with the Maigari of Lokoja in the task to build the town. Lokoja can not afford to stand still, we must strive to develop our Land.
“I call on the people of Lokoja most especially youths to rally round the Maigari and the concerned authorities for the development of Lokoja land, the state and the country at large”, the lawmaker emphasized.
In his own remarks, the local government boss, praised the personality of the ‘Sarkin Wasa Lokoja’ and thanked the Maigari for considering Muhammed Baba Idanako for the title.
“Idanako is a very responsible, respectful and cool headed young man whose reign promises to be highly successful,” Lawal stressed.
Following the completion of the turbaning, the massive crowd cheerfully and enthusiastically led the Sarkin Wasa Lokoja to his residence where reception was held.
Dignitaries at the turbaning ceremony which witnessed traditional dances included, Member representing Lokoja/Kogi federal constituency, Hon. Buba Jibril, the Speaker, Kogi State House of Assembly, Rt Hon. Ahmed Umar Alfa Imam, the local government council Chief Administrator, Hon. Shiru Lawal, traditional title holders and Ward Heads, among others.
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