By Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab
Budan came alive with pomp and celebration on Friday as dignitaries from far and near thronged the town to witness the coronation of the Agankyu of Kakanda, Dr. Engr. Faruk Muhammad Kakanda.
The grand event attracted traditional rulers, political figures, religious leaders, and well-wishers, all gathered to honour the ascension of the new monarch in a ceremony rich in culture and heritage.
The Agankyu was ceremoniously led into the coronation venue by Ahmed Ibrahim Sumasu, the Nakoji of Kakanda Kingdom, accompanied by royal guards and other high-ranking chiefs in the Emirate Council, drawing cheers from the crowd.
In a solemn rite, the Chief Imam of Budan, Sheikh Yahya Usman, administered the Oath of Office.
The monarch, in his pledge, vowed to uphold the tenets of Islam while preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Kakanda Kingdom.
The highlight of the ceremony was the decoration of the Agankyu with traditional regalia by the Nakoji, supported by other kingmakers, symbolizing his authority and formal ascension to the throne.
Dignitaries in attendance included the Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Aliyu Umar Yusuf; former Speaker, Rt. Hon. Ahmed Umar Alfa Imam; the Sadauna of Kakanda, Alhaji Tijjani Aliyu; the Chairman of Lokoja Local Government Area, Comrade Abdullahi Adamu; member representing Lokoja I in the State Assembly, Hon. Tijjani Shehu Bin Ebaiya; the State Commissioner for Water Resources, Engr. Danladi Faruq; and former Kogi State Secretary to the Government, Alhaji Musa Ahmadu.
Also present were representatives of the Maigari of Lokoja and the Hakimi of Ward D, Isah Ahmed Nasidi; members of the Kogi State Council of Ulamau led by its Administrative Secretary, Alhaji Idris BabaâAngo; members of the Kakanda Traditional Council; traditional title holders; and members of the Lokoja Forum of Patriots.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, traditional title holders paid homage to the newly coronated Agankyu, Dr. Engr. Faruk Muhammad Kakanda, reaffirming their loyalty and support to his leadership.
The event, marked by colourful displays and a large turnout, underscored the unity and cultural pride of the Kakanda people.
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