From Esther Akaa, Lafia
The Senator representing Nasarawa South Senatorial Zone and former Governor of Nasarawa State, Senator Umaru Tanko Al-Makura has been conferred with a chieftaincy title as the Sardauna of Gwandara people.
Senator Al-Makura was coronated by his kinsmen at an elaborate ceremony which took place during the 2021 Gwandara Development Education and Cultural Association (GWADECA), National Festival, held on Saturday, at Pilot Science Secondary School, Kwandere, Lafia North Development Area, Nasarawa State.
Speaking with journalists immediately after his coronation, the new Sardauna of Gwandara, Senator Al- Makura appreciated the gesture done him by his kinsmen, saying he will emulate all the qualities of the late Sardauna of Sokoto, Alhaji Ahmadu Bello.
According to him, Nigeria needs many Sardauna of Sokoto to ensure peace stability and security in the country, describing a Sardauna as one who does not discriminate or believes in primordial sentiments but embraces everyone inspite of religion and ethnic affiliations.
“By assuming this position, I have made a pledge to sacrifice as much as I can for the sake of humanity without any difference of religion, tribe and even political parties. If you come from a different political party, I will treat you like some one that desires some kind of protocols and respect.
“I have seen so much love and affection and nostalgia and it made me think about how my forefathers left Kano to settle in this area and I am overwhelmed and delighted. I am really happy and I pray that God will give me the kind of wisdom to act in the way of the Sardauna and even add value,” he said.
Senator Al-Makura was conferred the chieftaincy title at an event, attended by dignitaries from within and outside Nasarawa State, including the Governor of the state, Engr Abdullahi Sule who was also given the title of “Turakin Gwandara” by the Gwandara people.
