In a shocking incident, the palace of Etsu Lokoja, Chief Emmanuel Dauda-Shelika, came under attack by hoodlums in the early hours of Saturday.
The attack occurred around 1:00 a.m. at the royal residence located on Plot 306, New Layout, Lokoja. Properties, including a vehicle, were destroyed in the violent assault.
Chief Dauda-Shelika, the traditional ruler known as Nyamkpa IV, narrowly escaped the attackers. He recounted his harrowing experience of scaling a fence to save his life.
“I woke up to a loud bang at my door,” he said, recalling the terrifying night.
“When I peered through the window, I saw my car engulfed in flames. The attackers had set it on fire.”
Fearing for his safety, the royal father avoided the main entrance and fled through the back door.
“I had to climb over the fence to escape,” he continued.
Neighbours in the community came out to battle the flames, but the car and other properties inside the palace were completely destroyed.
Cultural Fiesta Aborted
The attack occurred just days before the Nupe Natives of Lokoja Development Union planned to host the 2nd edition of their annual cultural event, the “Lokoja ’24 Nupe Cultural Fiesta.”
The celebration was intended to showcase the rich heritage of the Nupe people and promote unity among Lokoja’s diverse communities.
Alhaji Abubakar Ndashite, National President of the Nupe Natives Union Lokoja and chairman of the event planning committee, condemned the attack.
“This was a cultural celebration, not a coronation or anything political,” he clarified.
He expressed frustration over the disruption, highlighting the resources and effort invested in the fiesta.
“We have worked hard to organise this event, and now it has been aborted. This is a loss for the entire community,” he lamented.
Call for Justice
Chief Dauda-Shelika has called on Governor Ahmed Ododo and security agencies to investigate the attack and ensure justice is served.
“We appeal to the government to look into this unfortunate incident,” he said.
“We want the authorities to identify and prosecute those responsible, including their sponsors.”
He also urged the government to officially recognise and grade the stool of Etsu Lokoja, emphasising its historical significance.
“The stool of Etsu Lokoja predates colonisation,” he said, calling for the government to acknowledge its cultural and historical value.
A Plea for Peace
The traditional ruler urged his people to remain calm and avoid retaliation.
“We must allow the authorities to handle this matter,” he said.
“This is not the time for revenge. Let us stay peaceful and law-abiding.”
The Lokoja Local Government Area chairman, accompanied by a security team, visited the scene for an on-the-spot assessment shortly after the incident.
Police officers and other security operatives have also launched investigations into the attack.
Tensions in Lokoja
While the motive behind the attack remains unclear, some community members have speculated about tensions linked to the upcoming cultural event.
Ndashite dismissed rumours that the event was a coronation, reiterating its focus on celebrating Nupe heritage.
“This was purely a cultural occasion to promote peace and harmony,” he said.
However, the attack has cast a shadow over the otherwise peaceful community.
Government’s Role
The state government’s response to the incident will be closely watched.
Community leaders, including Ndashite and Dauda-Shelika, have stressed the need for swift action to prevent future attacks.
“The government must act decisively to protect our cultural institutions,” said Ndashite.
He added that such attacks, if left unchecked, could erode the trust and harmony that Lokoja’s diverse communities have long enjoyed.
Rising Insecurity
The attack on the palace highlights broader concerns about rising insecurity across Nigeria.
Traditional rulers, often seen as custodians of peace and culture, have increasingly become targets of violence.
Experts warn that this trend, if not addressed, could destabilise communities and erode cultural values.
Community’s Resilience
Despite the setback, the Nupe Natives Union Lokoja remains committed to its mission of promoting cultural pride and unity.
“We will not be deterred by this unfortunate incident,” said Ndashite.
