Irewha Hunting Festival: More Than Culture, It’s a Peace Catalyst – Barr. Tanko Osuku
By Yahaya Idris, Toto
Barr. Muhammed Tanko Musa Osuku, All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain and the Executive Chairman of the Kogi State Civil Service Commission, attended the vibrant Irewha Hunting Festival in Shafa Abakpa, Toto Local Government Area of Nasarawa State. His presence added a layer of prestige to the event, where he openly expressed his excitement over the rich Egbira Hunting traditions on display.
The festival served as a captivating platform to showcase the enduring culture of the Egbira people, drawing crowds eager to witness age-old rituals, music, dance, and hunting demonstrations that have been passed down through generations.
Barr. Tanko Osuku’s enthusiastic participation underscores the festival’s role in promoting unity and cultural heritage across borders.
“By bringing the Egbira customs to a global audience through modern media coverage, the event not only celebrated local pride but also fostered inter-community ties in Toto LG.”
He disclosed the remarkable teamwork among diverse tribes, all uniting with the Egbira people to champion peace and development in the area.
Tanko said he was overwhelmed by the high level of humility and cooperation displayed by other indigenous groups toward the Egbira hosts. “This spirit of collaboration, he noted, is accelerating peace and development not just in Toto but across its surrounding communities.”
“The event unfolded on Saturday, drawing massive crowds to the vibrant annual Irewha Hunting Festival, a cherished tradition deeply rooted in Egbira culture.” Barr. Tanko said.
“I saw tribes such as Gade, Tiv, Gbagyi, Bassa, Hausa, and others turned out in large numbers, blending seamlessly with the Egbira people.”
“Their enthusiastic participation transformed the festival into a powerful symbol of inter-ethnic harmony.”
“Hunters from various groups showcased skills passed down through generations, competing in thrilling displays that captivated onlookers.”
“Traditional dances, music, and communal feasts further amplified the festive atmosphere, fostering bonds across cultural lines.”
Barr. Tanko, a legal luminary, in an interview with Journalists, praised the uncommon display of unity.
He emphasized that such togetherness could only flourish in an environment where peace and harmony thrive.
“Peace is the bedrock upon which we build lasting progress,” Tanko declared, urging residents to maintain this momentum.
The festival, he added, exemplified how collective efforts could propel Toto LG toward greater heights.
The former Kogi LG Chief Administrator, commended the people of Shafa Abakpa for their unwavering commitment to development over division.
He stressed that speaking with one voice would create even more opportunities for growth and prosperity. “United, we thrive; divided, we stagnate,” the Kogi APC leader remarked, rallying the crowd.
The Irewha Hunting Festival once again proved its role as more than a cultural event, it’s a catalyst for peace.
