The Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, His Royal Majesty, Dr. Ahmed Tijjani Muhammad Anaje, has received traditional rulers and custodians of Ebira traditions at his palace to deliberate on issues affecting the cultural heritage of the people.
In his welcome address, the Ohinoyi said the meeting was convened to address challenges hindering the progress of Ebiraland, particularly those associated with masquerading activities, and to chart a way forward towards redeeming the battered image of the land.
According to him, recent Ebira masquerade outings have been characterized by violence, intimidation, and lawlessness, leading to the gross bastardization of the culture and requiring urgent attention.
The revered monarch also commiserated with the Ohireba of Uhwodo over the recent attack on his personal residence by yet-to-be-identified persons. He called for calm and restraint, noting that the Kogi State Government under the leadership of Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo is already handling the matter.
The Ohinoyi further warned traditional rulers across Ebiraland against associating with criminals.
In their separate responses, the Ohireba lamented that masquerades no longer take directives from traditional authorities, explaining that they often rely on the backing of highly placed individuals in positions of power.
The Tarus, on their part, pleaded with the government to clearly define their powers and authority within their respective domains.
To address the situation, a committee was inaugurated and saddled with the responsibility of identifying problems associated with masquerading in Ebiraland and proposing lasting solutions. The committee was given three weeks to submit its report.
The Ohidanse of Okengwe was appointed as Chairman of the committee, while Dr. Haruna Opotu and Dr. Suleiman Salihu were named Secretaries.
Other members were drawn from districts across Ebiraland, cutting across local government areas, and included Ohis, district heads, Tarus, Ohirebas, and community leaders.
The meeting also resolved that all masquerading activities in Ebiraland should be suspended until the committee submits its report and clear modalities are established for future outings of masquerades.
At the gathering, a sum of over five hundred thousand naira was raised to support the committee in commencing its assignment.
Reacting to the gesture, the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland expressed happiness over the support and prayed for the success of the committee.
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