The ancient Igala Kingdom in Kogi State is set to confer a prestigious traditional title on Hon. (Dr.) Labaran Yahaya Oyigebe as preparations reach their peak for the ceremony scheduled to hold today at the palace of the Ata Igala in Idah.
Oyigebe will be honoured with the title Akọhiaka – Ata Ede, in recognition of what palace sources described as his longstanding contributions to the preservation and documentation of Igala history and cultural heritage.
The ceremony, slated for Friday, April 3, 2026, at the palace in Idah, the traditional headquarters of the Igala Kingdom, is already attracting attention from across Kogi State and beyond.
Our correspondent, who visited the palace premises ahead of the event, observed heightened activities around the historic complex as traditional aides, palace officials and local organisers made final arrangements for what is expected to be a colourful ceremony.
Sources within the palace disclosed that the conferment of the title Akọhiaka – Ata Ede is traditionally reserved for individuals regarded as custodians of Igala oral traditions and chroniclers of the kingdom’s rich historical legacy.
According to the sources, Oyigebe’s recognition also reflects the kingdom’s effort to strengthen the preservation of its historical narratives through individuals who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to cultural advocacy and documentation.
As part of the ceremony, Oyigebe will be formally installed as an accredited legendary historian of the Ata Igala, a role considered both symbolically significant and culturally important within the traditional hierarchy of the kingdom.
Organisers of the event have extended invitations to dignitaries, cultural enthusiasts and members of the public to witness the historic occasion.
The coronation ceremony is expected to commence at 10:00 a.m. at the palace, with traditional rites, royal blessings and cultural displays forming key highlights of the event.
