The second edition of the Gongola Grand Cultural Fiesta, held at the Ribadu Square, Yola, Adamawa State, was witnessed by an unusual honour for Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, as over 83 indigenous ethnic nationalities of Gongola origin presented him with a white horse in recognition of his leadership.
The annual cultural event was organised under the umbrella of the Gongola Peoples Forum (GPF) and co-hosted by several socio-cultural organisations, including the Adamawa Unity Forum (AUF), National Initiative for Leadership Development and Change (NILDC), National Forum of Founders (NFF), and 3KT.
The fiesta, which brought together a large coalition of indigenous groups across the state, was organised to celebrate the creation of new chiefdoms and emirates by the state government and to honour Gov. Fintiri for what the organisers described as his inclusive governance.
Contrary to expectations that the governor would be conferred with a traditional title, the organisers surprised attendees by presenting him with a white horse and adorning him with sacred traditional attire and symbolic weapons of warfare, portraying him as a courageous warrior and worthy indigenous leader.
Presenting the horse to the governor, who was represented by the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Aloysius Babadoke, the National General Secretary of the GPF, Chief L.D. Nzadon praised Gov. Fintiri for what he described as making a difference as a minority leader who had previously been written off.
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Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Prof. Kaleb Fili, described the fiesta as a landmark in the cultural and traditional rebirth of the indigenous peoples of Adamawa State.
He said the event symbolised unity and collective strength among the diverse ethnic groups.
Chairman of the occasion, General Paul Tarfa (rtd), described Gov. Fintiri as a transformational leader, citing achievements across various sectors, particularly the creation of new chiefdoms and emirates.
He commended the indigenous peoples of Gongola origin for their foresight and steadfastness in coming together to celebrate the governor.
Speaking on behalf of the newly created chiefs and emirs, the Tol Hoba, Alheri Bulus Nyako, described the unity displayed by the indigenous peoples as a dream come true.
He said the new traditional rulers were honoured to be part of the state’s traditional institution.
In a vote of thanks delivered on behalf of the National Chairman of the GPF, Markus Gundiri, by the Vice Chairman II, Hajiya Halima Hayatu, appreciation was extended to all dignitaries and participants who graced the event, while prayers were offered for their safe return.
