Kogi indigenes in Kaduna call on Governor Ododo to recognize Etsu Lokoja stool
By Austine Agbo Emmanuel, Kaduna
http://www.newsportng.com.ng Kogi State indigenes residing in Kaduna, under the Niniji Nupe Development Association (NNDA), have called on Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo to officially recognize the Etsu Lokoja stool, describing it as a key part of the indigenous Nupe heritage in Lokoja.
Speaking at a press conference in Kaduna, the President of NNDA, Mr. Fredrick Nyabam, expressed concern over what he termed as growing hostility toward the Etsu Lokoja, HRH Emmanuel Akamisoko Dauda Shelika, Nyamkpa IV. He highlighted recent attacks, including the burning of the Etsu’s vehicle and threats to his palace, urging the Kogi State Government to intervene.
“The continuous silence of the government despite these attacks is concerning,” Nyabam stated. “Lokoja has deep historical roots, dating back to the 1700s when Nyamkpa, a Nupe warrior, migrated with his people from Gbara near Bida in present-day Niger State.”
He further explained that the name “Lokoja” itself originates from the Nupe language, derived from an event surrounding the disappearance of Etsu Nyamkpa’s oracle, “Luko,” combined with the circumstances of the event, which formed the phrase “Luko-a-dza,” later pronounced as “Lokoja.”
The association emphasized that HRH Emmanuel Akamisoko Dauda Shelika—Nyamkpa IV—was legitimately chosen through traditional consultations and installed as the Etsu Lokoja on January 23, 2024, at Mount Pati, a sacred site for the native Nupe of Lokoja. A public reenactment of the installation took place on July 27, 2024, further reinforcing his authority.
NNDA members stressed that the Nupe people have historically welcomed and coexisted with other ethnic groups in Lokoja. However, they lamented what they described as marginalization and exclusion from governance. They urged Governor Ododo to officially recognize and elevate the Etsu Lokoja stool, which they claim predates all other traditional institutions in Lokoja.
The group also condemned the alleged harassment of their people, warning that any further attacks on the Etsu Lokoja would be regarded as an attack on the entire Nupe community. They called on security agencies to investigate the recent incidents and bring the perpetrators to justice.
Despite their grievances, the association reaffirmed their commitment to peace and harmonious coexistence. They pledged their support for Governor Ododo’s administration, stating that their demand is not about conflict but about preserving their cultural identity and securing rightful recognition.
