By Joy Salami
The people of Ogodu in Omala Local Government Area of Kogi State, have crowned Alhaji Yakubu Akede Musa, as the new Omaba of Ogodu, officially ending the period of leadership vacuum in the community.
The coronation ceremony, which held in Ogodu during the weekend, attracted dignitaries from within and outside Kogi State, including traditional rulers, government officials, community leaders, and residents.
Alhaji Yakubu, from the Ohioma Clan, emerged as the 8th Omaba of Ogodu after a rigorous selection process involving 5 contenders from different royal lineages. His emergence follows the passing of the last traditional ruler and a long search for a successor acceptable to both the kingmakers and the people.
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In his acceptance speech, the new monarch promised to promote peace, unity, and development in Ogodu. He called on all indigenes, including his fellow contestants, to join hands with him to move the community forward.
“There are no losers in this process. We are all winners if Ogodu wins”, he said.
He thanked God almighty, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, The Ata Igala, HRH Matthew Alaji Opaluwa Oguche Akpa II, kingmakers, the Igala Traditional Council for their role in guiding and ensuring a peaceful transition.
The coronation was attended by the Onu Igala of Jos, Alhaji Sadiq Muhammad, who described the new monarch as a peace-loving man with a deep understanding of tradition.
HRH Yakubu Akede Musa becomes the second Omaba of Ogodu from the Ohioma Clan, following the reign of HRH Atodo Akala.
The Omaba stool, which rotates within four ruling houses, has produced seven previous Kings from different family lineages.
The District Head of Ogodu, Alhaji Abubakar Dauda, described the installation as “the dawn of a new era.”
Meanwhile, the National Chairman of the Ogodu Community Association, Mr. Acheneye Aruwa, emphasised the need for youth empowerment, education, and infrastructural development.
The traditional ruler of Inye, Alhaji Hassan Sule, and representatives of various clans also prayed for a peaceful and successful reign.
Speaking at the event, Opaluwa Simeon, a son of the soil, member of the organising committee, and a representative of the ruling clan, expressed immense joy at the successful enthronement.
“This is a moment we’ve been looking forward to for years, and it has finally come to pass in our time,” he said. “The vacant throne of the Omaba has now been filled, and we believe it is God who ordains a king. The community should rally together in unity to support the newly crowned monarch.”
He emphasised the importance of unity among all clans in Ogodu, highlighting their shared ancestry and urged the people to harness their strength in support of the new Omaba’s reign.
“For a community like Ogodu, where we are all related in one way or another, it’s vital we come together now, leave behind past differences, and ensure the success of the new king whom God has chosen for us, adding that now is the time to bring everyone to the table, unite the community, and move forward as one, he added.
He also appreciates the people who supported the program morally and financially.
Ogodu is one of the major communities in Omala LGA, known for its rich cultural heritage and agricultural productivity. The town is home to over thousands of people and plays a significant role in the socio-economic structure of the area.
With the coronation of HRH Yakubu Akede Musa, residents are hopeful for a period of growth, peace, and renewed unity under his reign.
The event was marked by cultural displays, traditional rites, and celebrations reflecting the rich Igala cultural heritage of the community.
