NOBODY Is SAFE! Popular King Flee As Angry Hoodlums Sets Properties, Palace Ablaze; SEE Details
On Saturday, the palace of Chief Emmanuel Dauda- Shelika, the Etsu Lokoja, came under attack from a group of suspected hoodlums who set fire to various properties on the premises, including a vehicle. The assault occurred around 1: 00 AM at the palace located on Plot 306, New Layout, Lokoja, and resulted in significant damage. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that moments before the incident, the Nupe Natives of Lokoja Development Union had been finalizing preparations for the ” Lokoja ‘ 24 Nupe Cultural Fiesta, ” an event scheduled for December 21, 2024, aimed at celebrating the cultural heritage of the Nupe community.
In an interview following the incident, Dauda- Shelika recounted hearing a loud crash at his door, prompting him to investigate from his window. He described witnessing flames engulfing his car, which had been set ablaze by the attackers. Fearing for his safety, he decided against confronting the assailants and instead escaped through a back door, scaling the fence to flee the scene. Dauda- Shelika later emerged onto the street to find his neighbors trying to extinguish the fire, though sadly, the vehicle and several items inside were lost.
The traditional ruler has since called on government authorities and security agencies to thoroughly investigate the incident and hold those responsible accountable. He urged the Nupe community in Lokoja to refrain from any form of retaliation, instead advocating for patience while the proper authorities conduct their inquiries. ” We are appealing to Governor Ahmed Ododo and security agencies to utilize their resources to investigate this incident and ensure that all those involved, whether directly or indirectly, are brought to justice, ” he stated. He also emphasized the need for recognition of the Etsu Lokoja title, which he asserted has historical significance predating colonization.
Further demonstrating the seriousness of the incident, the chairman of the Lokoja Local Government Area and his security team visited the site the following morning for an assessment, along with police and other security personnel.
Alhaji Abubakar Ndashite, the National President of the Nupe Natives Union Lokoja, clarified that the planned event was intended solely as a celebration of Nupe cultural heritage and not as a coronation, as some had suggested. Ndashite, who also chairs the event planning committee, expressed disappointment over the disruption caused by the attack, highlighting the significant investment made in organizing the cultural festivities.
He urged the government to take swift action against those responsible and restore peace in the community, emphasizing the importance of celebrating the rich history and unity of the Lokoja area.