By Nathan Emmanuel
In commemoration of the two-year anniversary on the throne and the grand coronation, which included the presentation of the staff of office on October 7, 2023, His Royal Highness, Alh. (Dr.) Abubakar Sadiq Ahmed Yakubu II, the Ejeh Ankpa and Chairman of Ankpa Traditional Council, has officially announced the conferment of chieftaincy titles upon some distinguished sons and daughters of Igalaland.
According to a press release signed by the Chief Press Secretary to Eje Ankpa, Rilwan Hamza, these chieftaincy titles serve as a testament to the dedication and exceptional contributions made by these individuals towards the growth and prosperity of Ankpa, Igalaland, and Nigeria.
The Ejeh Ankpa, while expressing gratitude, acknowledges the unwavering commitment and outstanding service rendered by these honorees. They stand not only as beloved sons and daughters of Ankpa but also as cherished friends pivotal to the community’s advancement.
While all the nominees are distinguished Nigerians who have recorded remarkable achievements in their chosen professions and careers, making a significant impact on their communities, the nomination of Abdullahi Haruna remains striking and unique.
Abdullahi Haruna, a communication professional, publisher, and social media influencer, has excelled not only in his chosen profession but also made a significant impact on his community through mentorship, community engagement, raising the political consciousness of the youth, and celebrating excellence and sterling leadership qualities, among others.
The press statement added that Haruna Abdullahi is to be conferred with Oma-Eju Eje Ankpa with a salutation Ga’aku. Oma-Eju Eje, which literally means “Eje’s eyes,” holds special significance. While not prejudicing other sense organs, when one considers the invaluable status of eyes among other sense organs, one would understand what Haruna Abdullahi means to the Eje and the entire Ankpa community.
Abdullahi Haruna’s nomination has been applauded across all quarters, as people have started showering him with congratulatory messages, commending Eje Ankpa for such a rare nomination. This is noteworthy, especially considering that in many Nigerian societies, chieftaincy titles are typically reserved for individuals who have reached the zenith of their careers.
However, since Haruna easily fits the description of the proverbial child whose clean hands qualified him to dine with kings, the nomination is perfectly in order. His well-deserved addition to the list of honourees of the titles has added an extra layer of significance to the occasion, emphasizing not only the celebration of achievements but also the encouragement of future endeavors.
As the Ankpa community, and indeed the entire Igalaland, eagerly awaits the formal conferment ceremony, the air resonates with pride, anticipation, and a collective sense of optimism for a more prosperous future for Ankpa communities and Igalaland as a whole.
