**Nasarawa Governor Presents Staff of Office to New Aren Eggon, Calls for Unity and Peace**
Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, has officially installed and presented the Staff of Office to Justice Ahmed Ubangari-Alaku (rtd) as the new Aren Eggon, the paramount traditional ruler of the Eggon Nation.
The ceremony, held on Saturday in Nasarawa Eggon Local Government Area, marked the formal recognition of the new monarch, coming decades after the last presentation of the Staff of Office in 1983 to the late Bala Angbazo, who passed away in 2022.
Governor Sule, while speaking at the event, urged the new traditional ruler to lead with justice, fairness and fear of God, noting that traditional institutions remain key partners in governance and community development.
He said traditional rulers play vital roles as custodians of culture, promoters of peace and unity, and mediators in conflict resolution, adding that his administration has continued to integrate them into governance structures across the state.
According to him, the appointment of Justice Ubangari-Alaku was based on his leadership qualities, wisdom and integrity, which he described as essential for uniting the Eggon Nation and promoting development.
The governor also called on the new monarch to use his position to promote peace and encourage respect for democratic processes, especially ahead of the upcoming Nasarawa North senatorial bye-election.
He further highlighted ongoing infrastructure projects in Nasarawa Eggon and surrounding communities, including road constructions and market developments, as part of efforts to boost economic growth and connectivity in the state.
The Commissioner for Local Government, Community Development and Chieftaincy Affairs, Aminu Maifata, said the emergence of the new Aren Eggon followed the passing of the previous ruler and commended the governor for supporting traditional institutions through palace renovations and development projects.
He also urged residents to continue supporting traditional leadership in promoting peace, unity and development across communities.
The Chairman of Nasarawa Eggon Local Government Area, Aliyu Ibn-Aliyu, described the installation as a unifying moment for the Eggon people and expressed confidence that it would strengthen peaceful coexistence among neighbouring communities.
In his acceptance speech, Justice Ubangari-Alaku expressed gratitude to the state government for approving his selection and presenting him with the Staff of Office. He pledged to rule with justice, fairness and dedication to the development of the Eggon Nation.
He called on sons and daughters of the land to support his leadership and work together for peace, unity and progress in Nasarawa State and Nigeria at large.
Dignitaries at the ceremony included former APC National Chairman Senator Abdullahi Adamu, former Governor Tanko Al-Makura, Speaker of the State House of Assembly Danladi Jatau, and the Emir of Lafia, Justice Sidi Bage (rtd), among others.