By Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab
The Lokoja Traditional Council in conjunction with the Lokoja Title Holders Council on Thursday held the annual Hawan Bariki (horse parade) at the Old Paparanda Square in Lokoja as part of activities marking the Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
The colourful event attracted traditional rulers, Islamic clerics, top politicians, government officials, community leaders, youths, women groups, and residents from different parts of Lokoja, who gathered to witness the cultural display and celebrate the festive season.
Security personnel were also on ground to maintain law and order as spectators trooped to the venue to witness the traditional parade and cultural performances associated with the annual celebration.
The ceremony featured the arrival of traditional title holders in colourful attires, accompanied by horse riders and cultural groups who entertained guests with songs, drumming, and dance displays.
In his remarks, the Maigari of Lokoja, Dr. Ibrahim Gambo Kabir Maikarfi, extended Sallah greetings to the people of Lokoja and called for peaceful coexistence among residents.
The royal father prayed for peace, unity, and progress in Lokoja, Kogi State, and Nigeria at large. He also advised his subjects, especially the youths, to shun social vices and embrace good morals capable of promoting development in society.
He urged residents to continue supporting traditional institutions and government at all levels in the collective effort to sustain peace and development in the area.
Addressing the gathering, the Chairman of Lokoja Local Government Area, Comrade Abdullahi Adamu, warned politicians against dragging the traditional ruler into political matters.
According to him, the Maigari remains a father to all irrespective of political affiliation, stressing that traditional institutions should be respected and protected.
The council chairman noted that the traditional institution has continued to play a vital role in promoting unity and peaceful coexistence among the diverse communities living in Lokoja.
He also extended his Sallah greetings to the people and prayed for continued peace, unity, and prosperity in Lokoja and the country.
Some traditional title holders who spoke with NationalWatch TV commended the Emirate Council for sustaining the Hawan Bariki tradition, describing it as a cultural heritage that promotes unity among the people.
They noted that the annual event has continued to strengthen the bond among residents of different ethnic and religious backgrounds in Lokoja.
Residents at the event also expressed satisfaction with the peaceful atmosphere that characterized the celebration and praised the organisers for the successful outing.
Highlight of the occasion was the display of traditional dances by different communities residing in Lokoja, which added colour and excitement to the celebration.
The event ended with special prayers for peace, progress, and stability in Lokoja, Kogi State, and Nigeria as a whole.
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