Lokoja Showcases Rich Cultural Heritage at Grand( Hawan Bariki )Homage Ceremony
By Musa Tanimu Nasidi
Lokoja, the confluence town and historic capital of Kogi State, once again reminded Nigerians of its rich cultural legacy as residents, traditional rulers, community leaders and government officials gathered at the famous Paparanda Square for a colourful grand homage ceremony in continuation of the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations.
The event, popularly known as Hawan Bariki (Parade), transformed the ancient city into a centre of cultural attraction as various traditional groups displayed the customs and heritage that have sustained Lokoja for generations.
From the early hours of Thursday, the atmosphere around Paparanda Square came alive with the sounds of drums, local praise singers and traditional dancers adorned in colourful regalia. The ceremony, which commenced at about 8:50 a.m., drew guests from different parts of Kogi State and beyond, reaffirming Lokoja’s status as a melting pot of cultures and traditions.
The opening prayer was led by the Chief Imam of Lokoja, Sheikh Aminu Sha’ban, while the Coronation Band Entertainers thrilled guests with musical performances that reflected the cultural identity of the ancient town. Traditional dance groups also entertained the audience with energetic displays that highlighted the diversity of Lokoja’s ethnic communities.
Speaking during the event, the Daman of Lokoja, Alhaji Baba Sule, said the ceremony was organised to preserve and promote the customs, values and unique identity of the Lokoja people.
According to him, the annual homage ceremony remains one of the most important cultural gatherings in Lokoja because it strengthens unity among the various ruling houses and communities.
“This event is not merely a celebration; it is a reminder of our history, our identity and the need to preserve our cultural heritage for future generations,” he said.
The ceremony also featured homage by the three Lokoja ruling houses under the leadership of the Waziri of Lokoja. The participating ruling houses included the Maigari Musa Ruling House, Maigari Abiga Ruling House and the Maigari Maikarfi Ruling House.
Officials of Lokoja Local Government Area, led by the Executive Chairman, as well as community leaders under the leadership of the Sarki/Sagi, also paid homage in recognition of the traditional institution and its role in promoting peace and unity in the area.
One of the major highlights of the occasion was the historical narration of Paparanda Square by the Maigari of Lokoja, His Royal Highness Alhaji Ibrahim Gambo Kabir Maikarfi IV.
The royal father described Paparanda Square, also known as Obasanjo Square, as one of the most significant public spaces in Lokoja, symbolising the political and cultural heritage of the ancient confluence town.
According to the monarch, the square has for decades served as a venue for traditional festivals, public gatherings, royal ceremonies and civic activities that unite the diverse communities in Lokoja.
He recalled that the square gained greater prominence during the administration of former Kogi State governor, Prince Abubakar Audu, who transformed and beautified the environment to encourage tourism and recreation in the state. The square was later commissioned on October 26, 2000, by former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
The monarch further explained that the strategic importance of Paparanda Square is deeply connected to the history of Lokoja itself, which once served as the administrative headquarters of Northern Nigeria during the colonial era because of its unique location at the confluence of Rivers Niger and Benue.
For many residents, Paparanda Square remains more than just a recreational centre. It represents the unity of the various ethnic groups in Lokoja, including the Hausa, Nupe, Yoruba, Kakanda, Ebira and Igala communities who have coexisted peacefully for generations.
The Maigari stressed the need to preserve the historical relevance of the square as a centre for communal gatherings, cultural promotion and peaceful coexistence among the people.
Indeed, the grand homage ceremony once again demonstrated that Lokoja is not only a historical town but also a vibrant cultural destination where tradition continues to thrive despite modern influences.
Stakeholders who attended the event expressed optimism that such cultural gatherings would further project Lokoja as a centre of cultural diversity and strengthen appreciation for the long-standing traditional institutions that continue to shape the identity of the ancient town.
As guests enjoyed refreshments and cultural entertainment throughout the ceremony, one message remained clear: Lokoja’s cultural heritage is alive, enduring and worthy of preservatio
