The Palace of Etsu Lokoja, Emmanuel Dauda-Shelika (Nyamkpa IV), was attacked in the early hours of Saturday by hoodlums who set his car and other valuable properties ablaze.
The monarch narrowly escaped harm by scaling a fence, while residents tried unsuccessfully to save the burning vehicle.
The attack occurred as Nupe natives prepared for the second edition of the Nupe Cultural Fiesta, planned for December 21, 2024.
The event, meant to celebrate Nupe cultural heritage, was aborted following the incident, which disrupted the arrival of Nupe natives from neighbouring states.
Etsu Lokoja narrated that he woke to a loud bang and saw his car on fire. Realizing it was an attack, he escaped through a back door, fearing for his life.
“My neighbours tried to quench the fire, but the car was completely burnt,” he told Channels Television.
Appealing for calm, the monarch urged the government and security agencies to investigate the incident thoroughly and bring the perpetrators to justice. He also called on Nupe natives to avoid any form of retaliation and remain peaceful.
He explained that the Nupe community had been working through lawful processes to secure recognition while maintaining peaceful coexistence with other ethnic groups in Lokoja.
The attack is suspected to be linked to tensions surrounding the Nupe Cultural Fiesta. According to the monarch, the Maigari of Lokoja had criticized their invitation to the event, questioning the legitimacy of the Etsu Lokoja title.
“The Maigari claimed there was no Etsu Lokoja, despite our historical existence before the colonial era,” the monarch said.
The traditional ruler reiterated that the cultural event was not a coronation ceremony, as alleged by some, but a celebration of Nupe heritage.
He emphasized the importance of following due process in seeking recognition for the Etsu Lokoja stool, stressing that the Nupe community values peace and development.
