EBIRA BANKER, CHIEF JIMOH IDOWU GARBA, MAKES HISTORY AS TAKETE-IDE CONFERS PRESTIGIOUS BOBAKEYE CHIEFTAINCY TITLE ON HIM
By Akin Fanodun – Kabba
In a remarkable demonstration of unity, cultural integration and peaceful coexistence among the diverse ethnic groups in Kogi State, a distinguished Ebira banker, philanthropist and community development advocate, Chief Jimoh Idowu Garba, has been honoured with the prestigious chieftaincy title of Bobakeye of Itakete-Ide by His Royal Highness, Oba Philip Ebilakun, the Olude of Takete-Ide.
The historic conferment took place on October 31, 2026, during the community’s Centenary Celebration and Annual Takete-Ide Day, an occasion that brought together traditional rulers, government officials, business leaders, professionals, sons and daughters of Takete-Ide, as well as distinguished guests from different parts of Nigeria and the diaspora.
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The ceremony was also graced by His Royal Majesty, Oba (Engr.) Alfred Modupe Aiyedogbon (JP), the Alamuro of Amuro Land, alongside members of the Takete-Ide Traditional Council and other prominent personalities.
The conferment of the Bobakeye of Takete-Ide chieftaincy title on Chief Jimoh Idowu Garba, an illustrious son of the Ebira ethnic group, carries significant cultural and social importance. It represents a powerful statement that mutual respect, brotherhood and peaceful coexistence can transcend ethnic and cultural boundaries.
At a time when unity and inclusive community development remain essential to societal progress, this honour reflects the enduring relationship between the Ebira and Okun-Yoruba communities and reinforces the values of acceptance, togetherness and shared responsibility among the people of Kogi State.
Speaking shortly after his investiture, Chief Jimoh Idowu Garba expressed profound gratitude to Oba Philip Ebilakun, the Olude of Takete-Ide, the traditional institution and the entire people of Takete-Ide for finding him worthy of such a prestigious recognition.
He described the honour not merely as a personal achievement but as a greater responsibility and a renewed call to service, particularly in promoting unity, peace and sustainable community development.
According to him, the recognition reinforces the importance of building bridges across ethnic and cultural divides, noting that communities achieve greater progress when their people embrace cooperation, mutual understanding and collective development.
He further pledged his continued commitment to supporting the traditional institution and initiatives that promote inclusion, social advancement and shared prosperity.
Demonstrating that his appreciation goes beyond words, Chief Jimoh Idowu Garba made a generous cash donation of ₦500,000 towards community development initiatives and projects designed to improve the welfare and living conditions of the people of Takete-Ide.
His gesture further reflects the spirit of philanthropy and social responsibility that informed the recognition, as community development requires not only goodwill but also practical contributions from individuals who are committed to the advancement of society.
The Bobakeye of Itakete-Ide chieftaincy title was conferred in recognition of Chief Jimoh’s professional accomplishments, humanitarian contributions, philanthropic disposition and sustained interest in community development.
Meanwhile, the Centenary Celebration provided an important opportunity for the people of Takete-Ide to reflect on their historical journey, celebrate their cultural identity and appreciate the sacrifices of past generations whose contributions laid the foundation for the community’s growth and development.
Beyond its colourful cultural displays and gathering of distinguished personalities, the celebration served as a reminder that tradition remains a vital instrument for preserving heritage, strengthening communal relationships and promoting peaceful coexistence.
The conferment of the Bobakeye title on an Ebira son by an Okun-Yoruba traditional institution therefore stands as a worthy example of how traditional institutions can promote inter-ethnic harmony, recognise genuine contributions and strengthen the bonds that unite the people of Kogi State.
Chief Jimoh Idowu Garba’s recognition is not just a celebration of personal accomplishment; it is also a celebration of brotherhood, generosity, cultural integration and the enduring power of unity in building stronger communities.
DemocracyNewslineNewspaper November 12th, 2026
