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A Rare Gathering of Bigwigs

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By Simon Baba
It was a rare assembly of political, traditional, academic and retired military bigwigs. They came from all parts of the country and beyond. The masses of the people from every community in Jukun land were also there. As usual, yours sincerely, a typical reporter of the old breed genre, was there on duty with his ears and eyes wide open to report the events faithfully as they happened. I’m talking about the three major events of the previous week which happened in Wukari and Takum in Taraba State and in which Taraba State Governor, Arc Darius Dickson Ishaku played the important role as chief host and keynote speaker.
What eventually turned out to be one of Ishaku’s recent most tasking schedules started Wednesday March 15, with an unexpected trip to Abuja for the meeting of state governors with President Muhammadu Buhari the next day. He returned to Jalingo Thursday evening in company of General T.Y Danjuma (Rtd), one of Nigeria’s most respected statesmen who is better known and adored back home as “Father of Taraba.” Both men accompanied by their wives – Barr. Anna Ishaku and Senator Daisi Danjuma headed for Wukari as early as 7.30 am Friday, March 17, for the events.
Wukari was a two-in-one event that lasted for two days. The first was the 40th anniversary of the Aku Uka, Dr Shekarau Angyu Masa-Ibi, on the prestigious traditional stool of his fore-fathers while the second was the maiden convocation ceremony of Kwararafa University. Wukari, I was told, had never seen a crowd of that magnitude in its entire history. All hotels in town and in neighbouring towns such as Ibi and Donga were fully booked and open fields and classrooms in the numerous schools in the town became temporary homes for those who couldn’t find accommodation. The oozing sound of music and dancing from the city announcing the commencement of celebration could be heard five kilometres from the town while the ceremony lasted that day.
The newly constructed convocation arena of the Kwararafa University was the venue for the two events. The Aku Uka’s anniversary was a unique outing and display of the complete paraphernalia of Jukun culture and tradition. As early as 6 am, men and women half clad in Jukun native attires hit the roads on foot for the long but slow procession from the city centre to the Convocation Square. They were accompanied by masquerades, and I counted no less than 50 of them, amidst singing drumming and dancing. Several state governors, deputy governors, ministers, members of the National and state assemblies and a powerful delegation of traditional rulers led by the Sultan of Sokoto, Dr Mohammed Sa’ad Abubakar, who was also chairman of the occasion, graced the event.
A loud ovation announced the arrival of Governor Ishaku at the arena at about 10.30am and that also signalled the beginning of the day’s proceedings. From thence, it was music, dancing and speeches. President Muhammmadu Buhari who was represented by the Minister of Sports, Mr Solomon Lalong, praised the Aku Uka for living up the expectations of his people, most especially during the peak of the serial communal crises inTaraba State in 2013 when he mobilised the people in support of government’s peace initiative.
Governor Ishaku, in his speech, eulogised the Aku Uka as a man of impeccable character and epitome of creativity and good leadership. He said under the traditional leadership of the traditional ruler Wukari had grown rapidly to become the centre of education and learning with two universities and a campus of the National Open University. The need to strengthen peace that has been achieved by his administration featured elaborately in his address. He urged all Tarabans to see the promotion and sustenance of peace as a responsibility they owe themselves and the state. “Let us promote those things that unite us and give no room to those that divide us. We must continue to foster and strengthen our friendship with our neighbours”, he said.
The convocation was yet another historic event attended by many of those high profile personalities who graced the event of the previous day. Kwararafa University is a private institution established in 2006 to help facilitate access to higher education for children of the area. Ishaku, a foremost Nigerian architect, drew the master plan for the institution. More than 2000 students were conferred with degrees and diplomas in the various departments. Eminent Nigerians such as Sultan Sa’ad Abubakar, Daisi Danjuma, Prof … Okojie and Alhaji Ahmadu Aliyu Oga Onawo who is the Chancellor of the university were conferred with honorary doctorate degrees.
In his speech at the event, Governor Ishaku advised the graduating students to see their graduation as the beginning and not the end of a journey. “For those of you graduating today, the journey begins today. You will be tested and you must be prepared to apply all that you have learnt”, he said. He urged the students to aim at the highest and the top always and “you will learn more as you continue to practise what you have learnt from school.” General Danjuma who had earlier been requested to take over the institution and assume its ownership demanded in his speech for a formal letter of offer and the conditions that must be met to enable him take a decision on the request.
From the convocation ground in Wukari, Governor Ishaku’s convoy moved to Takum to await the grand finale of the 2017 Beth-El Conference of the Christian Reformed Church – Nigeria scheduled for the next day. It is an annual evangelical event which draws participants from all parts of Taraba and its neighbouring states. The entry of Governor Ishaku and Anna, his wife, into the large arena that Sunday morning of March 19, was an act of great happiness and exhilaration for the over 20,000 participants. They rose from their seats, waved and cheered as Taraba’s First Family alighted from their car and took their seats.
The event was an opportunity for the church leaders to express their gratitude to Ishaku for all his achievements in road construction, the provision of water and the remarkable improvement in electricity. But they were most impressed – and every speaker of day did not forget to mention it – about peace that is being enjoyed now in the state and without which their gathering for the event would have been impossible this year. Ishaku told them that he was committed to changing the very ugly situation of things he met on assumption of office. “We are doing a lot for you. We have done 100 boreholes in various communities across the state. This year, we are doing 150 more. We have built several roads despite the poor financial situation.” He said Chanchagi – Takum road has been rehabilitated to make driving on it smoother. The road is to be awarded for reconstruction soon.
He told them that the Taraba State he inherited on assumption of office was a state in pieces, rendered so by the crisis of that time and that he was happy that the state is now in peace. That portion of his speech saw the entire congregation rising again on their feet in appreciation of this achievements. He told them that he was not unaware of the fact that he was not liked by some people in the state because he was not prepared to put the state’s money on the table to be shared. “Let me assure you. I will never share government’s money to individuals.”
He called for patience even in the face of extreme provocation by the Fulani herdsmen. “Retaliation will lead to bloodshed. We don’t want that. Give government the chance to resolve such problems. That is the only way we can guarantee the sustenance of peace that we have won for the state.”

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HON. JA’AFARU YAKUBU HONOURED WITH DOUBLE TRADITIONAL TITLES OF CHIROMAN GASSOL AND MARAFAN BAKUNDI BALI

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The Member representing Bali/Gassol Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Ja’afaru Chiroma Yakubu (ADC), has been conferred with two prestigious traditional titles — Chiroman Gassol and Marafan Bakundi Bali — in recognition of his exemplary leadership, commitment to public service, and immense contributions to community development.
The traditional honours were officially bestowed on the federal lawmaker by the revered traditional ruler of Bakundi Chiefdom, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Kabiru Muhammad Gidado Misa, the 10th Lamdo of Bakundi, during a colourful coronation ceremony attended by members of the royal family, community leaders, political associates, supporters, and well-wishers.
The conferment of the dual traditional titles has continued to attract widespread commendation from stakeholders across Taraba State and beyond, with many describing the recognition as a reflection of Hon. Ja’afaru Yakubu’s growing influence, grassroots connection, and unwavering dedication to the wellbeing of his people.
In a congratulatory message issued by his Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Comrade Bashir Umar Dali, the lawmaker was described as a courageous, humble, and visionary leader whose commitment to humanity and community advancement has remained outstanding.
According to the statement, the titles Chiroman Gassol and Marafan Bakundi Bali are symbolic recognitions of the lawmaker’s selfless service, people-oriented representation, and tireless efforts towards promoting unity, peace, and sustainable development across Bali/Gassol Federal Constituency.
The statement further noted that Hon. Ja’afaru Yakubu has consistently distinguished himself through impactful representation, empowerment initiatives, and developmental interventions aimed at improving the lives of the people.
“Your commitment and selfless contributions to the growth and progress of the people continue to inspire many across Bali/Gassol Federal Constituency and beyond,” the statement read.
Comrade Bashir Umar Dali also prayed for greater wisdom, strength, honour, and divine guidance for the federal lawmaker as he continues to shoulder greater traditional and leadership responsibilities in service to the people.
Observers have described the conferment of the two traditional titles as a major endorsement of Hon. Ja’afaru Yakubu’s leadership credentials and his increasing relevance in the socio-political and traditional landscape of Taraba State.
The titles Chiroman Gassol and Marafan Bakundi Bali are regarded as highly respected honours within the traditional institution, reserved for individuals who have demonstrated exceptional character, loyalty, service, and commitment to the development and unity of their communities.

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EID-EL-KABIR: BELLO BABAYO BELLO COMMENDS TINUBU, SHETTIMA, GOMBE GOVERNOR AS HE FELICITATES WITH MUSLIMS NATIONWIDE

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The Executive Director, Networks, Niger Delta Power Holding Company Limited (NDPHC), Engr. Bello Babayo Bello, FNSE, has extended warm felicitations to Muslim faithful across Nigeria, particularly the people of Gombe State, on the occasion of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration, urging citizens to continue promoting peace, unity, love, and national development.
In a goodwill message released to journalists on the occasion of the Islamic festival, Engr. Bello described Eid-el-Kabir as a sacred celebration that reflects the virtues of sacrifice, obedience, faith, compassion, and gratitude to Almighty Allah as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS).
He called on Muslims to use the spiritual significance of the season to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, support one another, and continue praying for the peace, stability, and prosperity of Nigeria.
Engr. Bello also commended the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his commitment to national development, economic reforms, infrastructural advancement, and efforts aimed at strengthening unity and progress across the country.
According to him, the administration of President Tinubu has continued to demonstrate determination in laying foundations for long-term growth and national transformation through bold policies and strategic governance initiatives.
The NDPHC Executive Director equally praised Vice President Kashim Shettima, GCON, for his loyalty, dedication, and support toward the actualization of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government.
He noted that the Vice President has continued to play a vital role in promoting stability, inclusion, and effective coordination within government.
Engr. Bello further applauded the Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, for what he described as purposeful leadership and remarkable strides in infrastructural development, healthcare, education, youth empowerment, and peaceful coexistence in the state.
He said the governor’s developmental policies and inclusive style of governance have continued to attract admiration and confidence from the people of Gombe State and beyond.
“Eid-el-Kabir remains a season of reflection, gratitude, sacrifice, and devotion to Almighty Allah. It is also a period that reminds us of the importance of unity, compassion, tolerance, and service to humanity. As we celebrate, we must continue to pray for our leaders and for the continued peace, progress, and prosperity of our dear nation,” he stated.
Engr. Bello urged Muslim faithful to extend love and kindness to the less privileged, widows, orphans, and vulnerable members of society during the Sallah festivities, stressing that charity and generosity are central teachings of Islam.
He also commended the people of Gombe State for sustaining the culture of peaceful coexistence, harmony, and mutual respect among diverse communities.
The engineering professional and public administrator expressed optimism that Nigeria would continue to witness greater development, unity, and economic advancement under the leadership of President Tinubu.
He prayed for Allah’s continued guidance, wisdom, protection, and blessings upon the President, Vice President, Governor Inuwa Yahaya, and all leaders across the country.
Engr. Bello finally wished Muslim faithful in Gombe State and across Nigeria a peaceful, joyous, and spiritually fulfilling Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

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Dogara Celebrates Eid El-Adha, Urges Nigerians to Embrace Unity, Sacrifice, and Compassion

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Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, former Speaker of the House of Representatives and Chairman of the Board of National Credit Guarantee Company Limited (NCGC), has extended heartfelt felicitations to Muslims across Nigeria and around the world on the occasion of Eid El-Adha.

In his Eid message, Dogara described the festival as one of the most profound moments in the Islamic faith — a sacred season that embodies the enduring virtues of sacrifice, obedience, faith, and total devotion to God, as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS). He noted that beyond its spiritual significance, Eid El-Adha serves as a powerful reminder of the values of compassion, generosity, and love for humanity.

According to him, the celebration offers an opportunity for reflection and renewal, urging Nigerians to recommit themselves to the ideals of unity, peace, and mutual understanding. He observed that the true essence of Eid lies not merely in celebration, but in the willingness to serve others selflessly and uplift the less privileged.

“Eid El-Adha reminds us that greatness is found in sacrifice, service, and compassion for one another. It is a season that calls us to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, extend kindness to those in need, and renew hope for a better and more united nation,” Dogara stated.

The former Speaker stressed that the lessons of Eid should transcend religious and ethnic boundaries, especially at a time when Nigeria needs collective commitment to peace, justice, and national cohesion. He called on citizens to rise above division and work together in the spirit of patriotism and shared destiny.

“As we celebrate this sacred festival, may the spirit of sacrifice inspire us to build bridges of understanding, promote harmony across our communities, and work collectively for a more peaceful, just, and prosperous Nigeria,” he added.

Dogara further prayed that the blessings of Eid El-Adha would bring joy to families, healing to communities, and progress to the nation. He encouraged the faithful to use the occasion as a time for spiritual renewal, deeper devotion to God, stronger family ties, and renewed commitment to the common good.

“As families gather in prayer and celebration, may this Eid remind us of our shared humanity and our collective responsibility to serve with humility, love, and sincerity. May the Almighty accept our prayers and sacrifices, bless our homes with peace and happiness, and guide our nation toward greater unity and prosperity,” he concluded.

Dogara wished all Muslim faithful a peaceful and joyous Eid El-Adha celebration filled with divine blessings, love, hope, and renewed faith in the future of Nigeria.

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