By Abah Benjamin Eneojoh

The Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has announced the lifting of the ban on masquerading activities during the Echane Festival in Ebiraland, stressing the need to preserve cultural heritage while ensuring public safety.





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Addressing a gathering of traditional rulers and community leaders at the Ohinoyi Palace in Okene, Governor Ododo acknowledged the significance of cultural festivals to the Ebira people, but highlighted the importance of preventing excesses that have led to disorder and violence in the past.

The Echane Festival, a cherished celebration of Ebira cultural identity, was put on hold due to concerns over its degeneration into violent clashes and disruptions. Governor Ododo emphasized that the festival’s revival must be guided by a strict adherence to traditional values and safety protocols.

The Governor tasked traditional rulers with developing clear guidelines for the festival, ensuring that it reflects the Ebira people’s rich cultural heritage while maintaining peace and order. He also warned that individuals found to have incited or participated in violent acts during previous festivals would face consequences.

The Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, His Royal Majesty, Muhammed Tijani Ahmed Anaje, praised Governor Ododo for engaging traditional authorities in a dialogue aimed at reviving the festival in a responsible manner. He noted that the earlier suspension was necessary due to the deviation from traditional practices and values.

With the ban lifted, the state government and traditional institutions are set to work together to ensure that the Echane Festival is celebrated in a way that honors the Ebira people’s cultural legacy while prioritizing public safety.

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Abdulrahman Obaje

Prince Abdulrahman Obaje is a Media, Information and Computer Technology Consultant. A quintessential Journalist, online marketer, social media strategist, Mathematician and Computer Scientist is based in Abuja, Nigeria. He is the Founder and the Publisher of The Informavores!. You can reach me on +234 805 939 5252 or send i-witness report directly to me on news@informavores.com.ng.

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By Abah Benjamin Eneojoh

Okene, Kogi State: Kogi State Governor, Alh. Ahmed Usman Ododo today observed the Eid-el-Kabir prayer at the prayer ground in Okene.

while addressing Journalists after the Eid Prayer , Governor Ododo extended warm greetings to all Muslim faithful in Kogi State, across Nigeria, and around the world.


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The Governor emphasized the importance of reflecting on the virtues of obedience, sacrifice, unity, and submission to the will of Allah, as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS). He urged all to use this opportunity to pray for themselves, their communities, their state, and their nation.

In his words ” of course, my message to the people of Kogi State and the entire Nigerians during this period is for us to imbibe the spirit of oneness pacified with passion and love for one another. This very festive period is a strong reminder of commitment to total submission to God Almighty. I urge my people to let us live together in peace” he said

Governor Ododo also prayed for the continued strength and wisdom of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose Renewed Hope Agenda is aimed at building a more prosperous Nigeria. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to unity, peace, and shared prosperity in Kogi State, highlighting efforts to deepen security, expand infrastructure, support farmers and traders, and strengthen education and healthcare systems.

The Governor encouraged citizens to reach out to the needy, forgive one another, and rededicate themselves to the values that bind them as Kogites and Nigerians. He wished everyone a joyful and peaceful Sallah celebration, concluding with the phrase “Eid Mubarak!”

On the influx of criminals into the North Central, Gov Ododo assured Kogites of maximum security noting that despite Kogi being bothered by 9 state and the FCT he has all the intelligence reports that would enable him handle the situation

The Governor was in company of the Former Governor of Kogi State His Excellency Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello and other Government functionaries at the prayer ground.

The chief Imam of Ebira Land, Sheikh Salihu Abere in his admonition charged all worshipers to summit to the will Allah at all times stressing that faith in God and obedience is key to Islam.

Governor Ododo has indeed demonstrated his leadership and vision for Kogi State’s progress, reflecting the importance of unity, peace, and collective effort towards building a brighter future for all citizens.

Author Profile

Abdulrahman Obaje

Prince Abdulrahman Obaje is a Media, Information and Computer Technology Consultant. A quintessential Journalist, online marketer, social media strategist, Mathematician and Computer Scientist is based in Abuja, Nigeria. He is the Founder and the Publisher of The Informavores!. You can reach me on +234 805 939 5252 or send i-witness report directly to me on news@informavores.com.ng.

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By AbduRahman Obaje

The Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists (NGIJ) has extended warm greetings to Muslims and all Nigerians on the joyous occasion of the Eid-el-Kabir, urging citizens to use the spiritual significance of the season to pray fervently for Nigeria’s peace, progress, and prosperity.





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In a statement jointly signed by the National President, Malam Abdulrahman Aliagan, and the National Secretary, Mr. Rowland Olonishuwa, NGIJ emphasized that Eid-el-Kabir is a reminder of sacrifice, obedience, and unwavering faith in God—values urgently needed in Nigeria’s current socio-political and economic reality.

“Eid-el-Kabir presents yet another opportunity for sober reflection and a recommitment to national values. We urge Nigerians to seize the sacredness of the season to pray for our dear country, its leaders, and its people. Only through unity, selflessness, and collective responsibility can we overcome our challenges and build the Nigeria of our dreams,” the statement read.

The Guild noted with concern the persistent challenges plaguing the country, including insecurity, unemployment, corruption, economic instability, infrastructural decay, poor governance, and youth restiveness. These issues, the Guild stated, continue to undermine Nigeria’s growth and the welfare of its people.

“The widening gap between government and citizens, coupled with declining public trust in institutions, calls for urgent and decisive action from all stakeholders,” NGIJ noted.

To address these challenges, the NGIJ called for inclusive governance, justice, and equitable distribution of resources. The Guild stressed the importance of good leadership, transparency, and a renewed commitment to the rule of law.

“We believe that inclusive governance that respects diversity and actively engages all regions, genders, and age groups is key to a more stable and prosperous Nigeria. The time has come to move from rhetoric to actionable, people-focused policies that reflect the real needs of Nigerians.”

The Guild also advised the government at all levels to prioritize job creation, support innovation and entrepreneurship, and invest in human capital development to reduce poverty and enhance national productivity.

In its message, NGIJ charged Nigerian youths to rise above apathy, idleness, and destructive tendencies. It encouraged them to be productive, patriotic, and proactive contributors to nation-building.

“Young Nigerians must shun crime and political manipulation. Instead, they should embrace education, skills acquisition, entrepreneurship, and civic engagement. The future belongs to them, and they must be ready to shape it with discipline and vision,” the Guild advised.

The Guild offered special prayers for the President, state governors, lawmakers, religious and traditional leaders, and every Nigerian, asking God to grant them wisdom, courage, and compassion in their service to the nation.

“As we celebrate Eid-el-Kabir, we pray for peace in every troubled region, healing for the sick, comfort for the bereaved, and divine guidance for all leaders and the led. May Allah bless Nigeria abundantly and guide us on the path of righteousness, unity, and shared prosperity,” the statement concluded.

Signed:

Malam Abdulrahman Aliagan
National President, NGIJ

Mr. Rowland Olonishuwa
National Secretary, NGIJ

Author Profile

Abdulrahman Obaje

Prince Abdulrahman Obaje is a Media, Information and Computer Technology Consultant. A quintessential Journalist, online marketer, social media strategist, Mathematician and Computer Scientist is based in Abuja, Nigeria. He is the Founder and the Publisher of The Informavores!. You can reach me on +234 805 939 5252 or send i-witness report directly to me on news@informavores.com.ng.

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