Hoodlums Attack Etsu Lokoja’s Palace, Monarch Escapes By Scaling Fence

The Etsu Lokoja, HRH Emmanuel Akamisoko Dauda-Shelika, Nyamkpa IV, narrowly escaped an attack on his palace by suspected hoodlums in the early hours of Saturday. The monarch disclosed that he had to scale the fence to save his life as the attackers set fire to his vehicle and other properties within the premises.

The incident occurred around 1:00 am at the palace located on Plot 306, New Layout, Lokoja, Kogi State. According to the Etsu Lokoja, the attack happened on the eve of the planned second edition of the Lokoja Nupe Cultural Fiesta, an annual event aimed at celebrating Nupe heritage, which had to be aborted due to the unfortunate events.

Monarch Narrates Ordeal

Speaking to reporters at the scene on Monday, Dauda-Shelika recounted the terrifying experience:

“It was around 1 am that I heard a big bang on my door. When I looked through the window, I saw wildfire coming from my car, which had been set ablaze. I knew it was an attack on the palace. I couldn’t come out through the main entrance due to fear, so I managed to escape through the back door and scaled the fence.”

The monarch added that his neighbors tried to extinguish the fire but could not save the vehicle and other property within the premises.

Cultural Event Disrupted

Members of the planning committee for the Lokoja Nupe Cultural Fiesta had met at the palace late into Friday night. Guests from neighboring states had already started arriving for the event, which was scheduled for Saturday. However, the attack forced its cancellation, leaving attendees and organizers disappointed.

Call for Justice and Government Intervention

The Etsu Lokoja has appealed to the state government and security agencies to investigate the attack thoroughly and bring the perpetrators and their sponsors to justice. He also urged the Nupe community to avoid reprisal attacks and remain peaceful while allowing law enforcement to handle the matter.

“We appeal to His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, and security agencies to investigate this unfortunate incident and ensure justice is served. We also call on the government to officially recognize and grade the stool of Etsu Lokoja, which has been in existence since before colonization.”

Authorities Silent

Efforts to obtain comments from law enforcement and state officials were unsuccessful. A police officer stationed at the palace declined to comment, while repeated attempts to contact the Kogi State Police Public Relations Officer, SP William Aya, and the state’s Security Adviser went unanswered.

Community Reaction

The attack has left members of the Nupe community in Lokoja shocked and saddened. Many are calling for swift government action to address the situation and prevent further violence.

As investigations continue, the Etsu Lokoja remains resolute in advocating for peace and urging government intervention to protect traditional institutions and cultural events in the region.