The outgoing governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello has presented the staff of office to the new Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, Alhaji Ahmedtijani Muhammed Anaje.
Bello, at the event on Thursday in Okene charged Anaje to use his position to promote unity among Ebiras so that they can contribute to the development of their communities and Kogi State .
Bello commended over 70 other contestants that applied to occupy the throne, saying their maturity and comportment before and after the selection of the new Ohinoyi underscored their genuine love for Ebiraland.
“In congratulating the over 70 qualified aspirants for the revered stool of the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, I commend you all for your spirit of sportsmanship and the maturity displayed for the interest of Ebiraland.
“Your act of patriotism, prioritizing the interest of Anebira above personal gain, is truly commendable. Congratulations to each one of you,” the governor said.
He urged Alhaji Ahmedtijani Anaje, to give priority to security, peace, progress, and the overall development of Anebira.
“As the Ohinoyi, he is now a unifying figure for all clans and districts in Ebiraland.
“On this historic day of your coronation, your clan is now the clan of the entire people of Ebiraland, your district is now the district of the people of Ebiraland, and your religion is the religion of the people of Ebiraland.
“While congratulating you, I urge you to collaborate with the President, Kogi State Traditional Council of Chiefs, the Atta Igala and other Royal majesty towards peace, security, and development in our state,” Bello charged the new King.
In his speech, Alhaji Ahmedtijani Muhammed Anaje, the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, promised to defend the interests of his subjects and foster unity among them.
“I have been given the authority over you, and I am not the best of you.
“If I do well, help me; and if I do wrong, set me right.
“The unity of Ebiraland can guarantee peace, security, and development. I call on every constant and the entire Ebiraland to come together to foster unity and development.
“I want to thank the governor, His Excellency Yahaya Bello, CON, and all Ebira sons and daughters for the various roles they played to achieve this rancor-free process,” he urged.
Mr Momodu Ozigi Deedat, the commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, lauded the governor, the kingmakers, and the stakeholders involved in the selection of the Ohinoyi.
He commended the peaceful nature of the selection process, saying this is good for the progress and prosperity for Ebiraland.
Deedat commended Governor Yahaya Bello for his care for the traditional institution, highlighting that during his eight-year administration, four Royal Majesties were successfully coronated without any acrimony.
An alumnus of the prestigious University of Jos, HRM Ahmedtijani Muhammed Anaje served in the Nigerian Army with a distinguished and unblemished career record.
His previous role as the Ohi of Okengwe began while he left the Nigerian Army to occupy his forefathers stool.
He was appointed Ohinoyi of Ebiraland on January 8, 2024, replacing King Ado Ibrahim who died on September 6, 2023. (vitalnewsngr.com)
