By Our Reporter 

Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, has formally presented the Staff of Office to the new Aren Eggon, Retired Justice Ahmed Ubangari-Alaku, officially installing him as the paramount traditional ruler of the Eggon Nation.

Speaking during the colourful ceremony held in Nasarawa Eggon Local Government Area, the governor urged the royal father to discharge his responsibilities with justice, fairness, and the fear of God.

“As you are aware, traditional rulers remain indispensable partners in governance and community development. They serve as custodians of our cultural heritage, promoters of peace and unity, as well as mediators in conflict resolution,” Sule said.

He noted that his administration had integrated traditional institutions into governance, stressing that collaboration between government and traditional rulers had enhanced peace, stability, and harmonious coexistence across the state.

The governor said the appointment of Justice Ubangari-Alaku to succeed the late Aren Eggon, Dr. Bala Abaine-Angbazo, was based on his leadership qualities and ability to unite the people.

“I say this considering the antecedents of His Royal Highness, who is a man of proven wisdom and integrity. He embodies the virtues that are essential for leadership. His emergence has given hope to the Eggon Nation for greater progress and development,” he stated.

Sule also charged the new traditional ruler to promote peace and encourage respect for democratic processes ahead of the June 20 Nasarawa North Senatorial District by-election.

Highlighting development strides in the area, the governor listed projects executed in Nasarawa Eggon and Nasarawa North Senatorial District, including the Nasarawa Eggon Modern Market, Alizaga Hill-Wuyo-Wamba Road, and the Nasarawa Eggon-Arugbadu Road linking communities in Lafia Local Government Area.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Local Government, Community Development and Chieftaincy Affairs, Aminu Maifata, said the emergence of Justice Ubangari-Alaku followed the death of the late Dr. Bala Angbazo.

Maifata commended the governor for renovating palaces across the state and called on residents to continue supporting traditional institutions in promoting peace, unity, and development.

Also speaking, Chairman of Nasarawa Eggon Local Government Area, Mr. Aliyu Ibn-Aliyu, described the installation as a development that would further strengthen unity and peaceful coexistence among the Eggon people and neighbouring communities.

“Let this coronation serve as a rallying point for our people and the state at large through the promotion of unity, peace, and cooperation,” he said.

In his remarks, the new Aren Eggon, Justice Ubangari-Alaku, expressed appreciation to Governor Sule for approving his selection and presenting him with the Staff of Office.

The former Chief Judge of Nasarawa State pledged to lead with justice, fairness, and the fear of God in the interest of peace and development.

“I call on all sons and daughters of Eggon land to join hands in building a stronger, more prosperous, and united Eggon Nation, a peaceful Nasarawa State, and a better Nigeria.

“Let us embrace dialogue over division, cooperation over conflict, and service over self-interest,” the monarch said.

Justice Ubangari-Alaku ascended the revered stool of the Aren Eggon on May 5, 2023, following approval of his selection by Governor Sule.

The last presentation of the Staff of Office to an Aren Eggon was in 1983 when the late Dr. Bala Angbazo received the insignia of office from the then Governor of the old Plateau State, Chief Solomon Lar. Angbazo died on July 12, 2022.

The event was well attended with Dignitaries from within and outside the state among whom are politicians, technocrats, business tycoon, traditional rulers and well wishers