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A prominent group, the Lokoja Forum of Patriots, has strongly criticized Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State for his failure to appoint a new Maigari of Lokoja, one year after the demise of the late monarch, Alhaji (Dr) Muhammadu Kabir III, who was the ruler of the state capital.

It is worth noting that the former Maigari of Lokoja passed away on September 28, 2022.

In a statement signed by the chairman, Alhaji Idris Babaango, and the secretary, Alhaji Ali Danlami Ibrahim, the Forum expressed its disappointment that despite the completion of the selection and appointment process by the Lokoja Traditional Council, the government has taken no action on the matter.

The statement emphasized that this situation is unprecedented in the history of Lokoja and goes against the cultural norms of the town, which do not tolerate a vacuum in leadership.

“The continued vacancy of the throne is detrimental to the interests of Lokoja, its people, Kogi State, and Nigeria as a whole,” the statement said.

“As the capital of Kogi State and an ancient town that once served as the capital of the defunct Northern Protectorate until the amalgamation of 1914, Lokoja deserves to have a traditional ruler appointed without further delay by His Excellency.”

The group further implored the Governor to address the situation urgently, highlighting the fact that Lokoja is the only major town in the state and the sole state capital in the entire Northern Nigeria region without a traditional ruler.

The absence of the Maigari of Lokoja has already had a negative impact on the town’s social and economic well-being. The statement described the situation as being “like a house without a rooftop,” with no Islamic or traditional guidance for almost a year, which is against the town’s cultural norms.

The Lokoja Forum of Patriots expressed deep concern and sadness about the failure of the Kogi State government to approve a new Maigari for the town.

In light of the continued vacancy, the indigenes have been forced to postpone the annual Lokoja Boat Regatta Festival and the Lokoja Nupe Carnival/Festival.

“We believe that there is no cause for celebration when the throne of the Maigari remains vacant due to the inaction of the Kogi State government,” the group stated.

These traditional festivals, which showcase the rich culture and traditional heritage of Lokoja, have been attracting tourists and generating revenue for many years. The postponement of these events will result in losses for the state government and local businesses, including hotels, cab operators, and other small traders.