Sultan turbans chief Onah as new Sarkin Idoma, Sokoto

From Bashir Rabe Mani, Sokoto

The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), His Eminence Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, on Saturday turbanned Chief Ambrose Onah as the new Ada’Idoma (Sarkin Idoma) of Sokoto.

Opening the coronation ceremony, Malam Sambo Na Malam Ilo prayed for God’s guidance and wisdom for the new leader and urged his second-in-command, the Alapa K’Idoma Sokoto, Chief Bartholomew Eluma, to offer full support to ensure a peaceful and successful reign.

In a statement issued by Ankeli Emmanuel, Secretary of the ICDA Coronation Committee, the Sultan reaffirmed his support for all resident community traditional leaders across the state, emphasizing the Sultanate’s commitment to mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.

Represented by the Ciroman Sokoto, Alhaji Aliyu Abubakar, the Sultan stated:

“As we turban you today as the Sarkin Idoma Sokoto (Ada’Idoma), we hope and pray that you ensure the sustenance and continuation of the cordial and good relationship we enjoy.

“I have known the Idoma people to be very good and caring, count many as friends, including former Senate President David Mark.

“You now have direct access to interact with the Sultanate Council and all traditional rulers, and I will serve as a bridge between you and the Council.”

The ceremony, held at the palace of the Ciroman Sokoto, also officially recognized Chief Bartholomew Eluma as the deputy leader (Alapa K’Idoma).

Chief Onah, was born on October 1, 1960, in Olayega village, Okpokwu Local Government Area of Benue State.

He began his education at LGEA Primary School (St. Peter’s, Ugbokolo) in Edumoga, obtaining his First School Leaving Certificate in 1977.

He completed his secondary education at Midland College, Jos, in 1985, and later earned a Diploma in Public Accounting and Auditing from the Abdu Gusau Polytechnic (Talata Mafara) in 2005.

Chief Onah joined the Federal Civil Service on July 3, 1986, as a clerical officer in the Federal Secretariat, Abuja.

He was transferred to Sokoto in March 1990 to serve in the Audit Department of the Ministry of Police Affairs, eventually retiring after 35 years of meritorious service.

Prior to his elevation to Sarkin Idoma, Chief Onah served as Chairman of the Edumoga Community in Sokoto for 16 years, acted as a community elder and advisor, and previously held the title of Alapa K’Idoma.