By Olukayode Idowu
Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum has presented the staff of office to the newly appointed Shehu of Dikwa, Ibrahim Ibn Umar El-Kanemi.
Alhaji Ibrahim Ibn Umar emerged as the 13th Shehu of Dikwa following the passing of the late monarch, Alhaji Mohammed Ibn Shehu Masta II.
In his address after the presentation of the staff of office to the Shehu at a ceremony held at the palace of the Shehu of Dikwa, Zulum stated: “The selection of Alhaji Ibrahim Ibn Umar ElKanemi, JP, CON, as the new Shehu of Dikwa, following the demise of Alhaji Abba Tor Shehu Masta II, was marked by a peaceful and harmonious process and this transition reflects the respect for tradition and the rule of law that defines the Dikwa emirate.”
He added that: “I am pleased to note that the succession process was conducted in a peaceful and collaborative manner, with the kingmakers of the emirate playing a key role in identifying a suitable candidate. Throughout the process, we remained guided by the relevant extant laws and traditions of the emirate.”
The Governor charged the Shehu: “Your Highness has ascended the throne in an era markedly different from that of your illustrious predecessors. These are more modern times that require your best efforts in providing leadership and direction.
“Ours is a State that has been bedevilled by years of insecurity, and the process of recovery is a collective responsibility for all, and so, you have a greater responsibility of changing the people towards the entrenchment of peace and development of the emirate.”
He recalled that while Borno had been battling terrorism for the last 16 years, the state had witnessed tremendous improvement in security and peace.
He said: “Nigeria’s battle against terrorism in the North-East for the past 16 years is gradually coming to an end. I wish to, at this juncture, commend the efforts of the Nigerian Military, other security agencies and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), as well as the entire people of Borno State, for their resilience and steadfastness during these trying moments. I am pleased to note that Borno State is currently experiencing a significant improvement in peace and security, making a welcome departure from the challenges of the past.”
The ceremony was also attended by the Deputy Governor of Borno, Umar Usman Karafur, Ambassador Babagana Kingibe, former Governor Ali Modu Sheriff, Deputy National Chairman of APC, Ali Bukar Dalori, Senators representing Borno, South, North and Central, Speaker Borno State House of Assembly and members of the House of Representatives.
Also in attendance are Emirs and Chiefs from all parts of Nigeria, Cameroon and Chad including the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III; Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Umar Garbai Elkanemi; the Emir of Zazzau, Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, Emir of Fika, Dr. Muhammadu Abali Ibn Muhammadu Idrissa and the Emir of Lafia, Hon. Justice Sidi Bage.
Others include the Sultan of Kachalla, Mohammed Kasser; the Emir of Maroua, Abdoulaye Yerima Bakary and the representatives of the Emirs of Bauchi, Katsina, Hadeja, Gwandu, Misau, and Kazaure.
The Emirs of Bade, Machina, Ningi, Wandali, Makare, Biu, Shani, Damaturu, Nguru, Yamaltu and members of Borno Elders Forum were also in attendance. Meanwhile, before the ceremony Governor Zulum commissioned two projects: an ICT centre and a Government lodge in Dikwa.
