The Egbiraland in Kogi State has lost one of its iconic and highly revered cultural ambassadors, Hajia Aminatu Salawu, aka Eche-Ozoku.
CHIEF EDWARD JATTO, in a statement he signed
FOR THE FAMILY of the deceased said Hajia Aminatu Salawu on Tuesday.
CHIEF EDWARD JATTO,wrote the biography of the deceased thus:
“BIOGRAPHY OF HAJIA SALAWU AMINATU AKA ECHE-OZOKU
Hajia Aminetu Salawu fondly known as Eche-Ozoku, was born in 1925 into the esteemed family of Alhaji Ovaito in Adavi-Odu, Kogi State. She was a woman of extraordinary talent, wisdom, and resilience, whose impact spanned across business, culture, and music.
A TRAILBLAZER IN BUSINESS AND MUSIC
Her journey began in 1960 as a skilled weaver in Ebira native clothes and entrepreneur, crafting beautiful, locally made fabrics that gained widespread recognition. However, her true passion lay in music, where she made a lasting mark in the local music industry. She was born during the prestigious Eche-Ahana festival, one of the most revered cultural celebrations in Ebiraland, and she carried that heritage with pride, promoting Ebira traditions through her songs.
As a cultural ambassador, Hajia Aminetu traveled across Nigeria, performing in various states and spreading the rich musical heritage of Ebiraland. Her dedication and immense contributions to the industry earned her numerous awards and recognitions from different organizations. She was celebrated as a workaholic woman of wisdom, whose artistry and influence helped foster peace and development, not just in Ebiraland but across Nigeria.
Her remarkable achievements caught the attention of the then Governor of Kwara State, Alhaji Adamu Attah, and the revered Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, His Royal Highness Sanni Omolori. She was taken to Kwara State to further showcase her talents at a time when Kogi State had just been newly created.
A RECOGNIZED CULTURAL ICON
In recognition of her outstanding contributions to Ebira music and culture, the late Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, His Royal Majesty, Dr. Ado Ibrahim, conferred upon her the prestigious title:
“Ohi Ehira Anyene Ete-Ebira, a title that cemented her legacy as a mother of the land, a beacon of culture, and a guardian of Ebira traditions.
A CENTURY OF LEGACY AND CELEBRATION
In 2024, her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren gathered to celebrate her 100th birthday in grand style in Kaduna State, a testament to the love, admiration, and respect she commanded. After spending years in Kaduna with her daughter, she finally returned home in December 2024 to take a well-deserved rest in her beloved Ebiraland
A WOMAN OF PROPHETIC INSIGHT
Hajia Aminetu was not just a singer; she was a voice of prophecy. One of her songs, a powerful composition filled with foresight and divine inspiration, was widely believed to have foretold the emergence of Governor Yahaya Bello in 2016. Her songs carried deep meanings, and many of her words came to pass, further solidifying her reputation as a woman of vision and wisdom.
A PEACEFUL TRANSITION TO ETERNITY
On the 18th of February, 2025, Hajia Salawu Aminetu Eche-Ozoku departed this world, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, dedication, and cultural preservation. She will be laid to rest today at 2 PM at her residence in Obehira Inipo.
Her life was one of emulation—an inspiring journey that her children, grandchildren, and generations to come will take pride in. She was a mother, a leader, a cultural icon, and a woman whose contributions to the progress of Ebiraland will never be forgotten.
SIGNED:
CHIEF EDWARD JATTO
FOR THE FAMILY.”
