The Nation Newspaper

Tag: monarch

  • Cultism: Monarch, police chief seek security measures

    Cultism: Monarch, police chief seek security measures

    The Ayangbunre of Ikorodu town in Lagos East senatorial district, Oba Kabir Adewale Shotobi, has called on relevant security agencies to come to the aid of the embattled town over the activities of cultists in the communities. The traditional ruler made the call on Thursday, during a town hall meeting called to discuss the renewed upsurge in cult killings and other violent acts in the town.

    According to the monarch, many lives had been lost as a result of the activities of the groups, while economic and commercial activities are badly affected. Oba Shotobi regretted that three lives were lost to the incessant cult war during the week and pleaded with the Police and the local Vigilante group, popularly known as Onyabo, not to be overwhelmed by the situation.

    “All I am here to do is to beg the Police and the Onyabo group to come to our aid. We must not allow the situation to overwhelm us. The killings are too much and it must stop. Economic and commercial activities are suffering and the people are looking up to us to come to their aid. I have spoken to the Police bosses and they have assured me that they have not banned Onyabo. The ACP told me his men are still willing to work with Onyabo as a team to stop the cult wars.

    Therefore, I urge all security outfits concerned to brace up and rid Ikorodu of these dangerous element. We want to be able to sleep and close our eyes again. We want peace in Ikorodu,” he said.

    Speaking during the meeting, the Area Commander of Area N Police Command, ACP Y. A Ayoku, thanked the Monarch and the Onyabo group for partnering with the Police on many occasions. He said the collaboration has helped to curb crime in the town. He promised the people that the cult killings would soon be a thing of the past.

    “Very soon, we will nab the perpetrators of the killings. The current situation should not discourage us. Let us continue to fight crime together. I urge all security outfits to operate within the ambit of the law in this fight against violence and crime. W e must come together and work out effective security measures,” he said.

    Present at the meeting were eminent indigenes and residents of the town including religious leaders, traditional chiefs, Community Development Association (CDA) executives, youth leaders, market men and women, as well as representatives of social and political groups.

     

  • Monarch, kinsmen praying for Olabimtan’s release

    Monarch, kinsmen praying for Olabimtan’s release

    •Abductors reduce ransom to N5m

    The monarch of Supare-Akoko, Oba Kasali Omosogbon, has declared three days fasting and prayers for the release of the kidnapped former Ondo State House of Assembly Speaker Victor Olabimtan.

    Omosogbon called on security agents to intensify efforts to secure his release.

    The monarch called on all Christians and Muslims in the town to converge on his palace for the special prayer, saying before the end of the sessions, Olabimtan would be released by his abductors.

    Women marched on the town, urging the abductors to release the former Speaker without delay.

    They said as mothers they are not comfortable with the kidnap, describing Olabimtan as humble and peace-loving.

    Sources said the kidnappers have reduced the ransom to N5million from the original N20million.

    The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State, Isaac Kekemeke, has urged residents to shun hasty conclusion on the abduction.

    Besides, he advised them not to attach any political motive to the development.

    The former Secretary to the State Government (SSG) said the kidnappers are enemies of the state and should be reprimanded.

    The APC chairman advised the people to remain calm and allow security agencies do their jobs.

    He said: “We need to work hand in hand with the government and law enforcement agencies to ensure that Olabimtan is returned to his family. We believe very soon he’ll be freed.

  • Monarch pledges peace, development at Erijiyan Day

    Monarch pledges peace, development at Erijiyan Day

    The Olohan of Erijiyan Ekiti in Ekiti State, Oba Omosebi Adegoroye Agunsoye II, has promised that his reign would usher in peace and rapid socio-economic development in his domain.

    He spoke at the Erijiyan Day celebration. The event was the first since the king’s installation some months ago.

    The monarch thanked the indigenes at home and in the Diaspora for their co-operation and contributions to the growth and development of the community. He urged them to do more, saying in unity, the town would achieve greater development.

    He challenged his subjects to come home and participate in communal activities that could attract investors to establish companies in the town. He said if investors come with their businesses into the town, it would be beneficial to the indigenes.

    “Erijiyan is your Jerusalem and must be developed,” he said.

    Oba Adegoroye appealed to the Ekiti State Government to assist in tackling the challenges which the community is experiencing. He listed these as bad roads, dilapidated schools, lack of electricity, youth unemployment and lack of women empowerment programme, among others.

    The carnival-like event provided the indigenes the opportunity to mark the first coronation anniversary for the monarch who was installed on July 15, last year as well as an opportunity to raise funds for various developmental projects of the community, which included renovation and extension of the monarch’s palace.

    Oba Adegoroye succeeded the late Oba Olufemi Alade, who died in 2012.

    The event was well-attended by the sons and daughters, who danced to the rhythm emanating from different traditional dance drums such as bata, agere, gangan, agogo and sekere.

    The Chiefs, elderly men and women, market men and women and youths later assembled in groups to pay homage and perform some traditional rites to the king.

    Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose has reiterated his commitment to partner with the monarch not only in infrastructural developmemt but also in sustaining the peaceful co-existence in the town.

    Governor Fayose, who was represented by the Speaker of Ekiti State House of Assembly, Hon. Kola Oluwawole, urged the people to strive to maintain the infrastructure provided by the government, adding that they should support the government’s and the monarch’s vision of taking the town to a greater height.

    Governor Fayose reiterated the commitment of his administration to partner with communities in areas of development and provision of basic amenities that would enhance their living standard.

    He pledged that his government would continue in its stride to ensure better lives for the people.

    The Chairman, Erijiyan Day Planning Committee, Mr Dare Oluwatayo, expressed appreciation to government officials, guests, clubs and societies for their presence and contributions to the town’s development projects, urging the indigenes to continue to support the monarch in his efforts to take the community to a greater height.

  • Monarch, five others feared killed in post-poll clash

    Monarch, five others feared killed in post-poll clash

    Six people, including a traditional ruler, were feared dead yesterday during a clash between supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Peremabiri, Southern Ijaw Local Government Area.

    The Paramount Ruler of the community, Chief Progress Neverdie and five other persons were said to have been shot during the fracas which occurred when results for the governorship election in the state were being collated in Yenagoa.

    It learnt that when it became obvious that the PDP candidate was poised to win the poll, the party supporters started celebrating and taunting the loyalists of the APC.

    Peremabiri is the community of the ex-militant leader, Mr. Eris Paul, popularly known as Ogunboss.

    Neverdie, who was reportedly shot at the back, was said to have been rushed to the Federal Medical Centre.

    Sources said he was unconscious and in a critical condition as he was being taken to the hospital.

    News of the incident filtered into Yenagoa shortly after the police urged the winners of the poll to celebrate with utmost modesty.

    The Commissioner of Police, Mr. Peter Ogunyanwo ,also thanked the general public for cooperating with all security agencies to conduct a peaceful and orderly rerun election.

    He said: “It is hoped that this trend would be improved upon in subsequent elections. The Command in the meantime appeals to all, that as the results are being announced, members of the public should co-operate with security agencies in sustaining the existing peace in the state.

  • Here comes the new monarch

    Here comes the new monarch

    Last Saturday, the Ayangburan of Ikorodu, Oba Kabir Adewale Shotobi, installed Chief Olukayode Oyewole Olomo as Baale of Ojogbe, Ikorodu, Lagos, OLATUNDE ODEBIYI writes.

    It was funfair at the palace of the Oba of Ikorodu, Oba Kabir Adewale Shotobi, Ayangburan of Ikorodu, last Saturday, when he installed Chief Olukayode Oyewole Olomo as Baale of Ojogbe, Ikorodu, Lagos.

    It was a gathering of various chiefs, Baales, Erelus, Osupos, indigenes and well wishers.

    Guests were decked in choice traditional attires. The king and the new Baale wore white native dresses.

    The ceremony began last Monday with the visitation of Chief Olomo to schools in Ojogbe where he presented them with gifts.

    On Tuesday, there was a lecture on crime  while on Thursday there was health talk and visitation by the Baale to General Hospital and Maternity Centre in Ojogbe. On Thursday and Friday, it was all games and sports at Ojogbe, while on Sunday, thanksgiving service was held at Ita-Elewa, Ikorodu, Lagos

    On Saturday, the ceremony started with the installation of Chief Olomo. It was dramatic as Oba Shotobi decorated the new Baale with a beautiful cap of dark purple and gold. He also put the royal beads on his neck and hands.

    The king, afterwards, charged him, saying there were tasks ahead of him. He warned against selling peoples’ land in the community during his reign. He advised him to create a new look for the community and make it better than he met it.

    He urged the people of the community to cooperate with their Baale.

    Oba Shotobi, however, called on the government to provide schools, health centres, stable electricity and higher institutions in Ojogbe community.

    Thereafter, the Oba presented the Baale with his certificate. The new Baale was full of joy. The Oba of Ikorodu and other guests took turns to take photographs with him.

    The ceremony continued with a reception during which the new Baale moved around, greeting and taking photographs with guests.

    Demola George and Sucess Juju band entertained guests.

    Chief Olomo said his installation was a call to duty.

    He promised to provide his community with everything that is within his power.

    An elated Olomo said recounted  that it was about seven years that he was picked in the village and through the years, one thing or the other hindered his installation.

    He called for the government’s intervention in the provision of schools and good roads in the community, saying the government should do more to assist traditional rulers.

    Chairman, Council of Baales, Ikorodu, Baale of Omitoro Chief Mufutau Odusoga told Olomo that they would work together to raise Ikorodu, wishing him goodluck.

    He described the Baale as an achiever who is calm, honest, intelligent and trustworthy. He said he would walk with him to move Ikorodu forward.

    President, St Peters Old Students Association Nigeria (SPOSAN), Alhaji Musiliu Soetan, urged the new Baale to have the fear of God. He described him as calm kind and focused, adding that he would be a model among the Baales, adding and that would be emulated because of his good qualities.

    He added that Olomo, who is the first Baale to be installed in the reign of Oba Shotobi, is an asset and would perform creditably.

  • Monarch calls for tolerance among Nigerians

    The traditional ruler of Songari Daddare in Obi Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, Alhaji Balaraba Saeed-Muhammad, has urged Nigerians to always live in peace with one another, irrespective of religious differences.

    He made the appeal on Thursday in Daddare during the annual Maulud Nabiy celebration marking the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad.

    “Peace and unity are veritable tools for national development. So, Nigerians must strive to maintain them for the nation to move forward.’’

    He said sustained prayers would allow the nation to overcome the devilish acts threatening the peaceful coexistence of Nigeria.

    The monarch also called on Muslims in the country to use the Maulud period to pray for peace, unity and progress of Nigeria.

    “Maulud is not only for merry making but a time to emulate what Prophet Muhammad was sent by Almighty God to come and do.”

    Saeed-Muhammad explained that as sincere Muslims, “we are supposed to follow all that prophet of Islam preaches and teaches”.

    He said that Prophet Muhammad preached peace, love and unity and true followers of Islam should emulate him to enjoy blessings of God Almighty.

  • Invest in Iwo, monarch urges indigenes

    Oluwo of Iwo Oba AbdulRasheed Adewale Akanbi has called on indigenes of Iwo land to take advantage of the investment opportunities in the town to develop it. He lamented what he called “the neglect” of Iwo history by indigenes of the town over the years.

    Oba Akanbi spoke in his palace with reporters on his choice and appointment as the 16th Oluwo of Iwo.

    He expressed displeasure at the slow pace of development in the town and called on Iwo indigenes, both at home and in the Diaspora, to invest in the town to develop and place it in its rightful position.

    The new monarch, to be presented his Staff of Office in January, recalled that the earliest Iwo settlement was initiated by Adekola Telu, a prince of Ile-Ife and son of the 21st Ooni, Luwo Gbagida, a woman.

    “Iwo’s history will be incomplete without looking at her historical antecedent. Available evidence and traditions of origin attest to the fact that Iwo takes her origin from Ile-Ife. Iwo, like any other Yoruba-speaking town, originated from the cradle. They were said to have migrated sometimes in the 14th century. In fact, its kingship has been traced to Ife.”

    Oba Akanbi assured the people that he would partner the new Ooni, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi (Ojaja II), to improve the town.

    “It is unfortunate that Iwo’s history has suffered neglect. That is why I said my coming is divine; I am the reincarnation of Telu. I am here to bring back the glory of Iwo land.

    “I know the town has some challenges but we will conquer them together. As the traditional ruler, I have vowed to lead by example. I will open Iwo to the outside world because God has blessed us with human resources and we will leverage on this to make Iwo a hub of employment.”

    “Iwo is very significant in the history of Yoruba land. That is why all and sundry should support me in moving the town forward,” Oba Akanbi said.

  • A monarch’s day of glory

    A monarch’s day of glory

    •Warri stands still today as new Olu is coronated

    The Itsekiri nation is in revelry, carnival mood, having successfully buried their late king, the Ogiame Atuwatse II, the late Olu of Warri. Itsekiri all over the world are converging at Ode-Itsekiri (Big Warri) today for the coronation of a new Olu. S’South Regional Editor, Shola O’NEI and Bolaji Ogundele write on the new Olu’s road to the throne.

    The story surrounding the ascension of Omoba Ikenwoli Godfrey Emiko to the throne of his forefathers as the 20th Olu of Warri Kingdom is as interesting as it is instructive. The narrative is a lesson on the virtue of patience, for not only his Itsekiri people, but for every human.

    Sixty years before his selection as the 20th Olu of Warri and head of the Itsekiri nation on Saturday, September 19, his birth had made him a front runner for the position. Being the first male child born to his father, the then Olu Erejuwa II, many thought he was a natural choice, but the Itsekiri have their ways of choosing their monarch.

    His father named him Abiloye (born while on the throne) because he was the first son to be born after Erejuwa II’s enthronement. He also called him Ikenwoli (king has come) because he though he was naturally designated to succeed him as king.

    However, when he was overlooked in the selection process in  1987 leading to the crowning of his older sibling, Prince Godwin Toritseju Emiko as the Ogiame Atuwatse II, Ikenwoli accepted the choice of his people with stoic equanimity and bowed to the wish of the oracles.

    Today, the dream that seemed aborted in May 1987 has come true. The man who has had to wait 28 years to fulfill destiny will be crowned, breaking a 200-year-old father-to-son Itsekiri succession tradition. It is in the story of people like the new Itsekiri monarch that the novel saying ‘delay is not denial’ has found real life expression. He could have lived his life into ripe old age and not be the Olu, which his father and his destiny, had purposed him for. The circumstances surrounding his eventual ascension may make the topics of destiny and supernatural predestination more interesting to study.

    There are Itsekiri authorities that have come out to debunk the story of the new king being sidelined for his brother after the passage of their father in 1987. In this view, due process never gave the Olu’s throne to Ikenwoli at that material time. as a matter of fact and records, he was not part of the process in line with the process of choosing a replacement for a departed Olu.

    The Secretary of the Itsekiri Leaders of Thought (ILT), Edward Ekpoko, said: “It is not known in Itsekiri tradition that the first male child on the throne must succeed the father, no. Any male child of the deceased Olu that is chosen by the oracle will be qualified to succeed the late Olu. Twenty-eight years ago he was not presented as a candidate for the throne; so when you people begin to talk of 28 years ago, he could have been the Olu because he was never presented by the family to the Olu Advisory Council.

    “The conditions are that names must be submitted to the Olu Advisory Council before the oracle is consulted on the choice of his name. so the issue of whether he could have been there 28 years ago does not even arise”, he said.

    However, the position of Ekpoko and other prominent Itsekiri leaders do only a little detraction to the interesting story of the 20th Olu of Warri. Being a quiet and unassuming personality, not much is available to the public about the personal life of the new Olu. The little that the public know about the man who was hitherto known tovery close circle of friends as ‘Baba Jakes’ bespoke graces and candour.

    “Although he could have used his position to further his personal interest, he chose a Spartan lifestyle with his wife and three children. Today, as he is assuming the office of the Olu of Warri, one of the most guarded and protected thrones anywhere in Nigeria, but not much will change about him,” one close source told our reporter.

    One of those well acquainted with the new Olu in his growing years, Mr Amorighoye Sunny Mene, gave a little insight into the personality of the Number One Itsekiri citizen.

    “It’s important to note that the new Olu went through tutelage under his father, Erejuwa II. He’s very grounded in the affairs of the office he’s about to take on. He is somebody who has listening ears and anybody who listens more than he speaks tends to exercise wisdom.

    “We were in the University of Benin together, where he read Business Administration. so you can say he’s well educated. He’s a thorough person who carries everybody along; he’s in touch with his siblings, his friends and everybody. I fervently believe that he’ll make Itsekiri nation very proud. As a personal conviction, I believe his reign will usher in prosperity for Itsekiri nation”, Mene said.

    As the new Olu takes the throne, his people have set tasks before him; things they will be looking up to him to bring along to them. One of the palace chiefs, Chief Ayirimi Emami, told our reporter that one of the tasks before the new Olu was the unity of the Itsekiri people.

    “With unity, we can achieve whatever we set our minds and hearts to as a nation. We are a very unique nation; no matter the task before him, the council of chiefs, everybody in the land are behind him. So we are most certain that he would succeed.”

    For Ekpoko, “The institution of the Oluship is a symbol of unity to the average Itsekiri man. that’s why we always say among Itsekiri ‘one people, one language, one king.’ This is very rare among other people, may be apart from Benin; I don’t think there’s any other ethnic nationality in Nigeria that has one traditional ruler like the Itsekiri. So, it symbolises the unity of the Itsekiri people and that is what we want him to sustain – the unity of Itsekiri people and peaceful coexistence between the Itsekiri people and their neighbours. Those are the things that are most important to us; also peace and security in Warri”, he added.

  • What I’ll miss being a monarch –New Borgu Emir Haliru Dantoro

    What I’ll miss being a monarch –New Borgu Emir Haliru Dantoro

    Twenty-two days after the transition of the famous late Emir of Borgu Kingdom, HRH Senator Haliru Dantoro, Kitoro 111, his son, HRH Barrister Mohammad S. Haliru Dantoro, two weeks ago, entered the royal palace as the new Emir of Borgu, after emerging the choice for the royal stool. The ceremony of formal entry into the palace is known in Borgu as ‘the Kibokpen rites.’ And having chosen to select the royal staff of Kitoro, the new Emir decidedly, chose to be addressed as ‘Kitoro 1V.’ The city of Borgu in Niger State literally stood still as royal fathers and dignitaries arrived early that Saturday morning to witness the traditional ceremony beside the palace grounds. It was an opportunity for the people of Borgu to showcase their rich culture in the display of colourful royal robes, official palace guards ceremonial dresses, traditional drumming, dances and ceremonial gun shots in the air. This beauty they displayed to the admiration of their guests. Visibly pleased with the warm, joyous reception given him by the cheering crowd, the new Emir, HRH Haliru Dantoro assumed duty, as he began to receive his subjects even till midnight. He spoke to Paul Ukpabio about the joy of royalty, the lifestyle he lived before the crown and the lifestyle he will live now as an Emir.

     Your Royal Highness, congratulations for the grand entry into the palace ceremony, how do you feel today?

    I feel grateful, fulfilled with a sheer feeling of ecstasy. The enormous problems of my people and the big vacuum created by my late father are there. However, I hold a strong conviction that all our problems are surmountable by the will and grace of Allah. Truly, I feel overwhelmed.

    Let’s go a little down memory lane. What was life like for you, growing up as a prince? what memories of your early life do you recall?

    Well, it is refreshingly interesting; unlike other princes, we grew up under strict tutelage from our father. We were never pampered as obtained in other parts of the world. We were taught to have respect for human dignity, which today serves as a source of inspiration in our lives. I recalled our trip to India with our late father, wherein we rode on elephants, the little disparities in our norms and values with Indians.

    So, who influenced you most, your mom or your dad?

    It is a difficult question to answer. However, both of them played prominent roles in shaping my life in different dimensions. The role of a mother continues to remain intrinsic on the life of a person, most especially coming from an extended family.

    What do you recall about your early life?

    My early life was so eventful because we grew up in a society that is cosmopolitan. My place has virtually all the constituent tribes of Nigeria because of the Federal Government’s presence. Virtually all my friends are residents. This has always served as a source of inspiration to me.

    Between destiny and hard work, how has your background helped to make you who you are today?

    The truth is that, hard work coupled with destiny, made me what I am today.

    Tell us a few things you remember about your childhood and a few about your parents.

    I was born and then lived with my uncle in the interior part of Borgu in Niger State in order to be acquainted with the norms and values of our people. I never knew my dad, neither did I know that I am from the ruling house until I was 10 years old.

    Being a young royal, are you willing to sacrifice your freedom to a life of living permanently in the palace?

    No prince can be said to be accomplished except you become an Emir. Leadership entails making sacrifices amongst which is what you have just mentioned. However, I want to believe that you misconstrued living in the palace as bondage. No, it is not. That is because, as an Emir, one still has to attend to issues of developmental importance even while you are in the palace. Therefore, it does not make any difference.

    How about your educational background?

    Well, I am a lawyer by profession. I attended NEPA Senior Staff School for my primary school, and then proceeded to Government Secondary School, Ilorin. And then attended Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, after which I went to the Nigerian Law School.

    What influenced your choice of being a legal practitioner?

    I see justice as one of the cardinal principles of life. In view of that, I went into a profession that can help give justice to my people. I really know my profession will help in piloting the affairs of my people.

    As a prince finally on the royal stool, please tell us what are some of the things that you will miss?

    As a lawyer, I owe a duty to represent my clients in the court; this is however no longer obtainable. Therefore I will miss the courtroom seriously.

    Why do you think that the people made you their choice?

    I am indeed a grassroot person, having participated in partisan politics and engaged in communal development. These activities, among many other factors, endeared me to the people. It is also a criterion that a kingdom like Borgu needs a pragmatic personality, full of experience and exposure. Destiny also cannot be changed for I was destined to be an Emir. That was why I was selected to succeed my late father.

    What do you think of royalty?

    As custodians of our norms and values, royalty involves a social covenant with your people. This is indeed a very serious challenge. It involves making serious sacrifices for the advancement of our people.

    If you were not what you are now, what else would you have loved to be?

    I am a lawyer and businessman; therefore I shall continue to engage in my professional practice while I also run my personal business all geared towards the emancipation of my people.

    The ceremony of the entry into the palace afforded us an opportunity to witness the rich culture of the people of Borgu. How do you see the culture and tradition of your people? 

    Borgu Kingdom is greatly endowed with a rich culture and tradition, which can serve as tourism potentials. It is no longer news that Borgu is a haven of peace and the pride of nature. This cannot be totally separated from our rich cultural heritage, which moulded our people to be peaceful. This serves as a pivot for development.

    Do the women of Borgu Kingdom have a role to play?

    Borgu Kingdom is a civilised society, which promotes gender equality. This can be seen even from the kingmakers, who select an Emir. The head of the princesses is a member who represents the interest of the womenfolk in the selection process.

    We hear that as a young man, you are a trendy dresser. Who do you take after in this regard? And tell us more about your style.

    (Laughs) I may be said to be trendy, but I must tell you that I am not flamboyantly extravagant in my dressings and deportment.

    What kinds of clothes do you like wearing?

    I do like wearing casual, traditional clothes.

    Now that you are an Emir, what will determine the clothes you wear in a day?

    (Smiles) That definitely will be premised on my assignments.

    What male fashion accessories like ties, cuff links, perfumes and so on appeal to you? And which one do you not do without?

    I have a soft spot for designer shoes and I can do without a wristwatch.

    How best do you love spending your leisure?

    I enjoy spending my leisure reading and making research findings.

    Tell us about your first car. What determines your choice of cars?

    My first car can be said to have been a jalopy, which I bought while in school. But speed and comfort determines my choice of cars.

    Tell us about some of your memorable moments that you have had in life. Times that you will never forget in life?

    My memorable moments were when I was struggling to become a lawyer in Ahmadu Bello University and when I was eventually called to the Nigerian Bar. Those eventful periods in my life are unforgettable.

    What do you value most?

    I value integrity and hard work.

    Now that you are an Emir, are you fulfilled?

    Definitely, I cannot say that I am fulfilled now until I am able to bring unprecedented development to Borgu Kingdom in virtually all facets of human endeavour.

    What sports did you grow up with? Have you developed newer ones in recent times like golf or polo?

    In time past, I played football but would like to play golf now as a form of exercise.

    As a young Emir, definitely, the women will flock around you, how will you handle this?

    I am successfully married to two wives with children and do not have soft spot for women in that regard.

    What inspires you?

    Challenges inspire me.

    How do you spend your holidays?

    I do that by travelling and spending time with my family.

    What kind of Borgu do you want to see in the next couple of years?

    A Borgu Kingdom that is virtually developed in all facets of human endeavours, most especially building on the solid foundation of our beloved late father.

    What are you passionate about?

    I’m passionate about upholding and building upon the legacies and great ideals of our father.

    And lastly, what kind of country do you hope Nigeria should be?

    I’m hoping that we have a Nigeria where the ordinary people can afford the basic necessities of life, which I am convinced shall be possible Insha Allah because of the focused leadership of President Mohammadu Buhari. This is also because Nigeria is heavily endowed with all the resources that make a country great.

  • Abia monarch, women back anti-corruption fight

    Abia monarch, women back anti-corruption fight

    Former chairman, Abia State Traditional Rulers’ Council, Eze Isaac Ikonne has reiterated his confidence in the President Muhammadu Buhari administration, urging residents to support the war against corruption.

    The Enyi 1 of Aba was the only traditional ruler in the state who welcomed then candidate Buhari into his palace, conferring him with the title Ogbuagu 1 of Aba.

    That action earned the monarch attacks by his fellow rulers, but he has not relented in his strong belief that the Buhari administration will restore the country’s lost glory.

    Eze Ikonne spoke as members of the President Buhari Grassroots Movement, Abia State Women Wing, visited him.

    He described the war on corruption as a step in the right direction, saying it will help to sanitise the system.

    The leader of the group, Rev. Mrs. Chinedu Nwogwugwu said they support President Buhari because of his sincerity in the anti-corruption fight in addition to his leadership antecedents.

    Lamenting how moneybags and unscrupulous politicians use women during campaigns and dump them thereafter, she urged women to engage in meaningful ventures.

    The women also held a rally at the Eziama Osusu Hall at Faulks Road, Aba, where Nwogwugwu lamented the extent and effects of corruption in the country.

    “It is unfortunate that during campaign and electioneering period, you will see our women going from one place to another and at the end, the politician will give them peanuts that will not be enough to buy even bread for the children and most times after they were elected and sworn into office, they will abandon the people that suffered to campaign for them. We are now being used as object of ridicule in the hands of politicians and that is why we are calling on them (women) to come out and join the president in his fight against corruption which has eaten deep into the economy of the country even more than cancer.”