By Correspondent in Lokoja.
The Kogi State Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs has issued a stern warning to Mr. Emmanuel Dauda Shelika over what it described as the unlawful creation of a chieftaincy stool and self-proclamation as Etsu Nupe of Lokoja.
In an official letter dated April 8, 2025, and signed by Odah Anthony,PAO, on behalf of the Honourable Commissioner,the Ministry expressed concern over Shelika’s activities, which allegedly include issuing invitation letters and engaging in ceremonies implying the existence of a traditional stool not recognized by the state.
The Ministry referenced a letter from the Lokoja Local Government Traditional Council dated January 13, 2025, raising alarm over Shelika’s actions, which are said to contravene the Chiefs Law of Kogi State, 2006.
“You have been unlawfully parading yourself as Etsu Nupe, Lokoja and purportedly engaging in acts suggesting the creation of an existing chieftaincy stool within Kogi State, and Lokoja in particular,” the letter stated.
The Ministry warned that such conduct is not only illegal but also poses a threat to peace and public order in the area.
It emphasized that the power to recognize or create a chieftaincy title rests solely with the state government through its appropriate institutions.
Shelika has been directed to immediately cease all actions and representations related to the title. “Failure to comply with this directive, the law will take its course,” the letter warned.
Copies of the directive have been forwarded to key authorities, including the Kogi State Commissioner of Police, the Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), the Maigari of Lokoja (Chairman of the Lokoja Local Government Traditional Council), and the Chairman of Lokoja Local Government Area.
