ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE PASSING OF HIS ROYAL MAJESTY, ETSU ABU ALI MOPA III, AND NOTIFICATION OF VACANCY IN THE STOOL OF ETSU BASSA‑NGE
Your Excellency,
On behalf of the Niniji Nupe Development Association (NNDA), the umbrella socio‑cultural body of the Bassa‑Nge/Nupe people established in early 1942, we formally announce to the Government of Kogi State the passing of His Royal Majesty, Alhaji (Brigadier General Rtd.) Abu Ali Mopa III, Etsu Bassa‑Nge and Chairman, Bassa‑Nge Traditional Council, who peacefully joined his ancestors on Monday, 24th November 2025.
His Majesty was laid to rest according to Islamic rites and military traditions, befitting his dual status as a revered monarch and retired senior officer of the Nigerian Army. The 8th Day Fidau Prayers were successfully conducted on Monday, 1st December 2025, with full participation of traditional rulers, government officials, and community members.
The 40th Day Prayers took place in the first week of January 2026, and served as another solemn moment of reflection, unity, and collective rededication to the progress of our land.
With the passing of His Royal Majesty, a vacancy has been created in the stool of Etsu Bassa‑Nge, a 1st Class traditional stool whose occupant serves as Chairman of the Bassa‑Nge Traditional Council.
The NNDA, just like the Bassa‑Nge Traditional Council and our community associations, remain firmly committed to peace, unity, and lawful succession process which is guided by our custom and traditions.
We assure the Government that the Niniji Nupe Development Association (NNDA), as the umbrella body of our people since 1942, will continue to work with all stakeholders to maintain peace and unity during this transition.
May the Almighty grant eternal rest to our departed King, bless our land with wisdom and prosperity, and guide the Government and Kingmakers in selecting a worthy successor.
Signed:
Barrister Abdulaleem Haruna
National President, NNDA
Copies to:
- His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Kogi State
- Honourable Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs
- Chairman, Bassa Area Traditional Council
- National President, Kpata Development Association
- Elders and Kingmakers of Nyankpa and Etan Ruling Houses
