The Etsu Lokoja, Chief Emmanuel Dauda-Shelika Nyamkpa IV, has shared a chilling account of his escape after hoodlums attacked his palace in Lokoja, Kogi State, early Saturday morning. The palace, located in the New Layout area of the city, was reportedly targeted around 1:00 am.
Describing the harrowing experience, Dauda-Shelika explained that he first heard a loud bang at his door and soon witnessed flames emanating from his car, which had been set on fire by the attackers. Fearing for his safety, the traditional ruler decided not to confront the attackers and instead escaped through the back door, scaling the fence to get to safety.
I woke up to check through the window, wondering what could have happened. Then, I suddenly saw wildfire coming out of my car that was set ablaze by attackers,” Dauda-Shelika recalled. “I knew it was an attack on the palace, and therefore I could not come out because of fear of being attacked. So, I managed to come out through the back door and scaled the fence to escape for my life.
After fleeing the palace, Dauda-Shelika saw that his neighbors had attempted to extinguish the fire, but the car, along with other properties, was destroyed.
The monarch called on both the government and security agencies to investigate the cause of the attack and bring the perpetrators and their sponsors to justice. He also appealed to the Nupe natives in Lokoja to remain peaceful and law-abiding, urging them to avoid any reprisals.
In his message to Kogi State Governor Ahmed Ododo, the Etsu Lokoja emphasized the need for the government to acknowledge the historical significance of the Etsu Lokoja stool and its pre-colonial legacy, calling for its recognition and grading.
The attack came as the Nupe Natives of Lokoja Development Union were preparing for their second annual cultural event, the “Lokoja ’24 Nupe Cultural Fiesta,” which was subsequently canceled due to the unfortunate incident.
Alhaji Abubakar Ndashite, the National President of the Nupe Natives Union Lokoja, clarified that the event was a cultural celebration, not a coronation, as some had speculated. He expressed his frustration over the cancellation, pointing out the considerable resources already invested in the event, and urged authorities to ensure those responsible are held accountable.