Sultan Turbans Chief Ambrose Onah as New Sarkin Idoma of Sokoto
By Fahad Faruk Galadanchi
The Sultan of Sokoto and President General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has turbaned Chief Ambrose Onah as the new Sarkin Idoma (Ada’Idoma) of Sokoto State.
The traditional ceremony was held at the palace of the Ciroman Sokoto, Alhaji Aliyu Abubakar, who represented the Sultan at the occasion.
In his message delivered by the Ciroman Sokoto, Sultan Abubakar urged the new traditional ruler to sustain the cordial relationship between the Idoma community and the Sokoto Sultanate Council.
He assured Chief Onah of the Sultanate Council’s support, stressing that the traditional institution respects and values all communities residing in Sokoto State.
“As we turban you today as the Sarkin Idoma Sokoto (Ada’Idoma ) we hope and pray that you ensure the sustenance and continuation of the cordial and good relationship we enjoy,” the Sultan expressed.
The Sultan described the Idoma people as “very good and caring” recalling his longstanding relationship with members of the community, including former Senate President, Senator David Mark.
“I have known Idoma people to be very good and caring. I have some of them as friends, especially the former President of the Senate, David Mark,” he explained.
The Sultan also recalled his time at the National Assembly, noting that he served as an Honourable Commissioner during Senator Mark’s tenure, while his nephew, Senator Maccido, was Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriation.
He assured the new Sarkin Idoma that his position would provide him with access to the Sultanate Council and other traditional rulers in the state
.
“I am a bridge between you and the Sultanate Council” the Sultan added.
Earlier, Malam Sambo Na Malam Ilo, who declared the coronation open, prayed for divine protection, wisdom and guidance for Chief Onah to enable him to lead the Idoma community effectively.
He also urged the Alapa K’Idoma Sokoto, Chief Bartholomew Eluma, to support the new Sarkin Idoma in the discharge of his responsibilities.
Chief Eluma was formally recognised at the ceremony as the Deputy Sarkin Idoma, bearing the traditional title of Alapa K’Idoma.
