By Our Correspondent
There is palpable tension amongst the Ebira People of Kogi State over the possibility of Yahaya Bello, the current governor of Kogi State, being appointed as the next Ohinoyi of Ebiraland.
The immediate past Ohinoyi, Dr. Abdulrahman Ado Ibrahim, died on Sunday, October 29, 2023, at the age of 95.
Many Anebiras are apprehensive that Bello is working hard to install Usman Ododo as the governor of Kogi State in the November 11 governorship election in exchange for Ododo appointing him as the Ohinoyi.
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One social media user, Kareem Abdul, responded to a post by another user, Habeeb Habeeb, saying, “Most importantly, if Ododo becomes governor, he will appoint GYB as Ohinoyi Ebira. Every effort should aim at ending GYB/Ododo shenanigans on 11 11.”
Another user, Avo Ozewu, also responded to Habeeb’s post, urging, “Please spread the message to save anebira from bondage. Governor Ododo and Ohinoyi Yahaya too dangerous!”
Lateefah Enehuwa also responded, saying, “Like nw u tif person something dey come collect am back. Na bygone be that 1 View 1 more reply.. Write a comment…”
It is important to note that the likelihood of Bello’s appointment is only speculation at this point. However, the fact that there is so much anxiety over the possibility suggests that it is a serious concern for many Anebiras.
Ascension to the exalted Ohinoyi throne is not by ruling lineage or ruling houses, but the position is elective courtesy of a group of elders and has traditionally been rotated amongst the major clans of the Ebira.
The Ohinoyi of Ebiraland is the traditional ruler of the Ebira people. The title ‘Atta’ of Ebiraland has also historically been used for this position but fell out of favour in the 20th century.
