Ex-Speaker Balarabe returns home for Ohiku Egbira National convention
…..He’s an asset to Toto LG, Council Boss, Pharm. Baba Yahaya
By Yahaya Idris, Umaisha
The National Ohiku Egbira Convention tagged “World Ohiku Egbira Day” scheduled for Saturday, November 29, 2025, in Umaisha, Toto Local Government Area, Nasarawa State, is a significant cultural event celebrating the Egbira people’s heritage and unity.
The Immediate Past Speaker of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Ibrahim Balarabe Abdullahi, has arrived in Umaisha to participate in the carnival, which has drawn large numbers of residents to welcome him with traditional drums and music along the route from Ugya town to Umaisha. Umaisha is an ancient town with deep historical importance as the seat of the Opanda Kingdom, founded by the Egbira people, part of the Kwararafa ethnic groups.
The town is known for cultural events like the Ogani Cultural Fishing Festival, which marks the independence and sovereignty of the Opanda Kingdom and celebrates the community’s historical ties with nature and wildlife.
The celebration also emphasizes the pride of the people in their history, language, and cultural heritage, drawing participants from across the region to partake in the
The people’s enthusiastic welcome of Rt. Hon. Ibrahim Balarabe Abdullahi underlines his importance and the communal spirit surrounding the event.
The Former Speaker and current Chairman of the Governing Council of Federal Polytechnic Damaturu, Yobe State, Balarabe Abdullahi, warmly addressed the mammoth crowd after an unexpected and enthusiastic reception.
He expressed deep gratitude for the love and trust his people have shown him and clarified that his visit was not political but rooted in tradition.
He was there to attend the traditional event and to support Ohimegye Opanda, HRH. Alhaji Usman Abdullahi, who is hosting this year’s Egbira Convention in his domain.
Balarabe Abdullahi reiterated his dedication to peace, unity, and development in the area and Toto Local Government.
He urged his people to continue fostering peace and unity and to actively contribute to the growth and progress of the community and local government at all times.
On his part, Chairman Toto Local Government Area, Pharmacist Ahmed Baba Yahaya, expressed gratitude and appreciation to Rt. Hon. Ibrahim Balarabe Abdullahi for his dedication and passion for his people.
Yahaya described Abdullahi as a true son of the soil and a great asset to both Toto LG and the wider state, praying for God’s continued blessings and support for him.
The welcoming event for Rt. Hon. Ibrahim Balarabe Abdullahi featured traditional drummers, musicians, youth, and women groups, celebrating his return as a notable son of the community.
Earlier, Balarabe stopped over in Ataku on his way to Umaisha to observe Juma’at Prayer, which was led by Mallam Abdulkarim Adams, Chief Imam of Ataku Central Mosque.
The sermon focused on the oneness of Allah and the five pillars of Islam.
Among Balarabe’s entourage were Hon. Usman Labaran Shafa, former State Assembly member for Toto/Gadabuke; Muhammed Understand, Special Adviser to Governor Sule on Water Resources; Hon. Alhassan Gimba, Special Assistant to Dr. Danladi Jatau, Speaker of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly; and former Toto LG Chairman Prince Nuhu Adamu Dauda, among others.
The town of Umaisha was vibrant with excitement, as residents of all ages gathered in large numbers to warmly welcome their native son. From Ugya town through major villages, people came out with drums and musical instruments, accompanying him in a lively convoy all the way to Umaisha.
