Prince John Ali Oriri Champions the Cultural Installation of Okanga Sisters in Ijigban Ward, Ado LGA
Ado Local Government, Nigeria – In a significant move to preserve cultural heritage and empower community traditions, Prince John Ali Oriri, the Vice Chairman of Ado Local Government Council, recently visited several key communities — Odumoke, Ojaba’ije, and Anmeka — to oversee preparations for the upcoming installation of the Okanga sisters under the Ijigban ward.
This traditional ceremony is more than a symbolic act; it marks a return to cultural roots and reinforces the values of unity, identity, and ancestral pride among the Ijigban people.
Who Are the Okanga Sisters?
The Okanga sisters are revered traditional figures in the Ijigban ward, serving as spiritual guides and cultural custodians. Their role in the community is deeply rooted in ancestral traditions, with responsibilities that include:
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Preserving local customs
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Promoting moral values
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Representing unity among women and families
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Participating in conflict resolution and cultural education
The installation of the Okanga sisters is a sacred rite, seen as an essential act of cultural transmission from one generation to the next.
Why the Installation Matters
In the face of modernization and external cultural influences, many indigenous practices risk being forgotten. The Okanga sisters’ installation ceremony is a critical reminder of the importance of cultural heritage preservation in Ado Local Government and beyond.
The event is expected to:
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Reaffirm traditional leadership roles in the community
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Strengthen the bond between elders and youth
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Promote female participation in traditional governance
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Inspire cultural tourism and local pride
Prince John Ali Oriri’s Community Engagement Tour
During his recent tour, Prince John Ali Oriri visited three key communities involved in the upcoming installation: Odumoke, Ojaba’ije, and Anmeka. The purpose of the visit was to:
1. Engage with Community Stakeholders
Prince Oriri held consultative meetings with elders, traditional chiefs, women leaders, and youth representatives to discuss the significance of the installation and encourage community-wide participation.
2. Plan for Logistical Success
The Vice Chairman helped coordinate preparations for the ceremony, which include:
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Securing a suitable venue
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Coordinating traditional attire and regalia
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Arranging security and transportation
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Inviting dignitaries and community guests
3. Preserve Traditional Rites and Practices
A major focus of the discussions was the importance of strict adherence to traditional customs during the installation process. Prince Oriri emphasized that every ritual step — from spiritual cleansing to public blessing — must be performed with precision and respect.
Cultural Significance for the Ijigban Ward
The Ijigban ward is known for its rich cultural practices and historic contributions to Ado’s identity. The installation of the Okanga sisters highlights the ward’s ongoing commitment to preserving indigenous knowledge systems and promoting gender-inclusive traditional leadership.
The revival of these customs not only strengthens community bonds but also positions Ijigban as a cultural beacon in Benue State.
Leadership Rooted in Tradition
Prince John Ali Oriri has received widespread praise for his hands-on approach and deep respect for cultural norms. His leadership demonstrates how government officials can support grassroots development by aligning with traditional institutions.
By promoting the installation of the Okanga sisters, he sends a powerful message: that tradition and progress can coexist, and that community empowerment begins with honoring where we come from.
Anticipation Builds for the Installation Ceremony
Excitement continues to grow as the date of the Okanga sisters’ installation draws near. Across Ijigban, preparations are underway, with residents coming together to contribute, participate, and celebrate.
This ceremony is expected to draw attention not just from within Ado LGA but also from neighboring communities and cultural organizations across Nigeria.
Conclusion: A Cultural Renaissance in Ado LGA
The upcoming Okanga sisters installation is more than a ceremony — it’s a movement. With support from local leadership, traditional authorities, and committed community members, the event promises to be a landmark in the preservation of Ijigban’s cultural legacy.
Through the leadership of Prince John Ali Oriri, Ado Local Government is setting a powerful example of how modern governance can walk hand-in-hand with ancestral wisdom and cultural pride.
Comrade Vincent Otse
Proud Member, Okanga Movement Worldwide
