Ex-Kogi Gov Bello promoted cultural heritage, supported education, empowered young people, infrastructure, and secured lives and property, – says Prince Muhammed Otaiki
….Invites people to Okene for Ekuechi Festival
An All Progressives Congress (APC) Stalwart from Kogi Central Senatorial District, Prince Muhammed Otaiki has said that the immediate past Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello, actively promoter the Ekuechi Festival, which emphasized his strong belief in cultural heritage and urging everyone to visit Okene to experience the beauty and richness of Ebira culture.
Otaiki said the festival and other traditional cultural celebrations in Ebiraland are original, deeply interesting, and highly valuable to their ancestral identity and pride.
According to him, the former Governor did souchbduring his tenure, he supported youth in government, agriculture, tech, and leadership that furthered economic empowerment in Ebiraland through establishment of institutions such as Kogi State Internal Revenue Service (KGIRS, Kogi State Vigilante, KSV, constructed road networks and built the world class traditional place,
He said his efforts fostered confidence and unity among the Ebira people.
Bello also established the CUSTECH Osara, giving many young people access to education and opportunities.
“Many people are now giving testimony how Bello supported with with generous gifts, including assistance, financial support, and even vehicles, which are seen as part of his kindness and care for his people.”
“He played a role in the progress that made Kogi an oil-producing state, allowing the state to benefit from the 13 percent derivation.”
He supported the development of Kogi State University Kabba, opening more doors for learning and youth development.
“He made the Ganaja Junction flyover a reality, reducing traffic and improving movement for thousands daily. He touched many lives, lifting several people from zero to hero, and the future will remember him for the impact he made.”
Prince Muhammed Otaiki reminder the people of Ebira land, as we celebrate Ekuechi, let us stand together in peace, unity, and love. Let us honor our culture, respect our leaders, and appreciate every hand that has helped lift Ebira land.
In line with longstanding customs and traditions of Ohiku Ebira, Saturday, 22nd November 2025, marked the beginning of this year’s Ekuechi festivals (Okehi and all other subsequent Ekuechi festivals) in Ebiraland as scheduled.
The Ezi-Ododo Elders of Uhuodo Okehi, in conjunction with the Committee of Custodians of Ebira Night Masquerades Association of Nigeria (C.E.N.M.A.N), hereby announce the processions of night masquerades across Ebiraland starting from 22nd November 2025, which is Ekuechi Okehi, and continuing with other subsequent Ekuechi festivals. Tradition and custom demand restrictions on female participation on these days.
Consequently, females are advised to remain in their residences from 6 p.m. to 10 a.m. as a condition precedent to the outing of night masquerades according to the schedules.
Global Times Nigeria reports that the Ekuechi Festival is a major cultural celebration among the Ebira people of Kogi State, typically held annually around the end of the year from November through December. It involves the coming out of night masquerades, traditional music, dance, artistic displays, and various rituals that renew the link between the living and ancestral spirits.
The festival marks the end of one year and the beginning of another in Ebiraland. It is a deeply significant event that promotes cultural pride, social cohesion, and economic activity while honoring the ancestors and deities of the Ebiraland.
During his tenure, he empowered the custodians of the masquerades, demonstrating his great love for his people and their culture.
