By Aduku Aruwa
Members of Otori-Arivi Family have commended the management and staff of The Graphic Newspaper, on its coverage of their kin, the late Pa Damisa Ejibade, saying such initiative would help in promoting and preserving the rich and cultural heritage of Ebiraland.
The legendary Pa Damisa Ejibade was renowned for his vast knowledge and experience in Traditional African Medicine and rituals. He was also a professional wrestler, farmer and hunter among other things.
A delegation of Otori-Arivi Extended Family, a sub-clan in Odumi Clan, in Ihima,Okehi Local Government Area, stated this during a courtesy visit to The Graphic Newspaper office in Lokoja.
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The delegation was made up of Chief Uru Damisa, Engineer Hamzat Jatto, Mr Omeiza Yusuf, Mr Hassan Jimoh and Mr Bello Abubakar.
Spokes person and Chairman of the group, Engr Hamzat Jatto, said the promotion of the achievements and lifetime of the late Pa Ejibade, in a feature article was highly commendable.
He specifically showered encomiums on the Managing Director, Mr Yusuf Itopa, for his unflinching dedication to the promotion of the rich cultural heritage of Ebiraland among Nigerians and other communities in the state.
“In view of your unwavering and relentless efforts in projecting a man you described as a ” Goliath That Never Fell”, has torched us emotionally and otherwise. The 30th anniversary of his demise was just a stepping stone in your record of this hero of ours – a father, an Uncle who jointed his ancestors years back 24th November, 1992 and till date never a forgotten soul.
“We are here to appreciate you and The Graphic Newspaper and its management for projection and recognition of our deceased father- late Pa Damisa Ejibade. We look forward for more accolades and deep historical facts about a champion who really never fell due to his humility and good sense of Judgment in critical situations.
“We thank you and commend you for bringing into limelight the life and achievements of this brave, strong and endowly built by nature but never intimidated anyone during his lifetime on earth”, Mr Jatto further added.
While urging the MD to extend his cultural research to the West and Eastern districts of the state, he prayed for God’s continuous blessings on him “for remembering this Icon of unity and culture”.
Contributing, a member of the delegation, Mr Bello Abubakar, encouraged Nigerians and those in leadership position to emulate to leadership style of the late Pa Damisa Ejibade, who despite his enormous potential and power, lived a simple life.
“His life should be a lesson for the younger generation and members of the political class they should strive to emulate his simple lifestyle. He touched the entire ethnic-group. As an activist he fought for the right of others. He equally used his position to serve humanity, channeled his knowledge in traditional medicine in curing people” he further added.
Mr Abubakar prayed God to equip the MD of The Graphic with more knowledge to enhance the growth of the paper.
Speaking, the MD of The Graphic Newspaper, Mr Yusuf Itopa, said the corporation has a pivotal role in promoting and supporting the various cultures in the state to ensure their sustainability and for posterity.
According to him, the feature article on the legendary Damisa Ejibade, was part of efforts tailored towards marketing the area’s unique cultural heritage, vibrant traditions, and potentials to the world.
“He was an embodiment of Ebira culture, a cultural icon, custodian of the vibrant traditions of the area, a professional wrestler, hunter, farmer and traditionalists who won laurels for his ethnic group at national events “.
He acknowledged his contributions at the Festac ’77, also known as the Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture, held in Lagos that brought laurels and recognition to Ebiraland.
The MD promised to do more, by channelling more energy and time towards initiatives that will raise awareness about the culture and traditions of the various groups across the state.
He then expressed the determination of the paper to collaborate with individuals and groups committed towards showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Kogi people to the outside world. The initiative would involve educating and reminding the upcoming generations, researchers and tourists about the culture, tradition, norms and values of the state.
