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.
Speaking during the ceremony, the Sultan urged the new Sarkin Idoma to sustain the cordial relationship between the Idoma community and the Sultanate Council, while assuring him of the council’s support.
The Sultan, in a message delivered by the Ciroman Sokoto, said the traditional institution respected and valued all resident communities in Sokoto.
He said, “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.
“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.
“I was an Honourable Commissioner at the National Assembly during his time, while one of my nephews, Senator Maccido, was then Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriation.”
The Sultan also assured Chief Onah that his new position would give him access to the Sultanate Council and other traditional rulers in the state.
“I am a bridge between you and the Sultanate Council,” he added.
Earlier, Malam Sambo Na Malam Ilo, who declared the coronation open, prayed for divine protection and wisdom for the new Sarkin Idoma to enable him lead the Idoma community effectively.
He also called on the Alapa K’Idoma Sokoto, Chief Bartholomew Eluma, the deputy Sarkin Idoma, to support the new traditional ruler in the discharge of his responsibilities.
Chief Eluma was also formally recognised at the ceremony as the deputy Sarkin Idoma, known as the Alapa K’Idoma.
