Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State has officially presented the Staff of Office to the new Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, Alhaji Ahmed Tijani Mohammed Anaje, during a ceremony held at the Ohinoyi Palace in Okene, Kogi Central Senatorial District, Okay.ng reports.
The Ohinoyi stool became vacant following the passing of 95-year-old Alhaji (Dr.) Ado Ibrahim in October of the previous year.
The installation of the 49-year-old monarch marked a significant event in the traditional and cultural heritage of Ebiraland.
Governor Bello, in his address during the presentation, charged the newly appointed Ohinoyi to prioritize unity, development, and the welfare of the people.
He urged the monarch to ensure the safety and security of the land and its inhabitants.
Expressing his fulfillment in performing the task of appointing and installing the Ohinoyi, Governor Bello emphasized the importance of unity among the people of Ebiraland. He commended the contestants for their sportsmanship, maturity, and unity during the selection process.
Addressing the Ohinoyi, Governor Bello stated, “Today, you don’t belong to any religion. You belong to both Islam and Christianity. You equally belong to those of us that believe in our culture. You don’t belong to only the former clan you belonged to. You belong to every clan that exists as far as Ebiraland is concerned. You belong to every district, every royal district that exists in Ebiraland.
“You must bring everybody together. I want to assure you that you are going to have the government of Ahmed Usman Ododo to support you and consolidate on all the successes that I have achieved in these eight years of my administration.
“I want to assure you that even after leaving office, I will be by your side to always render any helping hand and to support you.”
He assured the newly installed paramount ruler of continued support from the government, even beyond his tenure in office.
In his post-installation speech, Ohinoyi Anaje expressed gratitude and humility at being appointed to serve.
“My heart is filled with a multitude of emotions, joy, determination to serve with integrity and a profound sense of gratitude,“ he said.
“I extend my sincere gratitude to His Excellency, Governor Yahaya Bello, for his unwavering commitment to the overall development of Kogi State and well-being of Ebiraland.
“Your leadership and trust in our people have paved the way for this new dawn. My appreciation equally goes to His Excellency Alh. Usman Ahmed Ododo.”
Ohinoyi Anaje highlighted the economic promise for Ebiraland and the nation with the revival of Ajaokuta Steel Company and Itakpe Iron Ore Mining Company.
The newly installed Ohinoyi also appealed to the Federal Government to consider establishing the North Central Development Commission (NCDC) for the benefit of the region.
