As the ongoing process to appoint a new Etsu Bassa-Nge Gboloko continue to attract reactions, the Bassa-Nge Youths have insisted that due and transparent process was followed in the formation of kingmakers.
In a statement made available to Journalists in Lokoja on Tuesday, the Association noted that some media outfits with limited knowledge of the laid down process of filling vacant position of Etsu Bassa-Nge Gboloko have decided to publish lies and concocted stories to satisfy their paymasters.
The statement which was signed by the president of the Association, comrade Nda Isah, and Aliyu Yakubu , general Secretary disclosed that their attention has been drawn to a publication titled “Tension Mounts in Bassa-Nge Over Alleged Hijack of Royal stool” and published in Daily independent newspaper on March 23, 2026.
According to the statement “Ordinarily, we would have ignored the publication, given its glaring inaccuracies and sensational undertones. However, as a grassroots-based socio-cultural organization with deep roots in the Bassa-Nge Kingdom, we find it necessary to set the record straight and prevent the public from being misled by what is clearly a sponsored narrative driven by selfish interests, largely from individuals operating outside the kingdom.
“Contrary to the claims presented in the said report, there is no tension or looming crisis in Bassa-Nge Kingdom. The process leading to the emergence of the Etsu Bassa-Nge was conducted in line with the established customs, traditions, and procedures of the Bassa-Nge traditional institution. All relevant stakeholders within the kingdom were duly carried along, and due process was strictly adhered to at every stage.
“The allegation of a “hijack” of the royal stool is not only misleading but also a deliberate attempt to create unnecessary panic and disaffection among the peace-loving people of Bassa-Nge. It is important to emphasize that the kingdom remains calm, united, and committed to preserving its long-standing heritage of peaceful coexistence.
“We wish to categorically state that the so-called aggrieved parties and their claims do not represent the collective will of the Bassa-Nge people. Instead, they are driven by narrow personal interests and a desire to destabilize the harmony currently enjoyed in the kingdom.
“We therefore call on the Kogi State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, the Honourable Commissioner, and His Excellency, the Governor of Kogi State, to disregard these unfounded allegations and the mischief-makers behind them. Their actions are unpatriotic and aimed at inciting discord where none exists.
“Furthermore, we urge members of the public and the media to verify facts before publication, especially on sensitive traditional matters that have the potential to affect communal peace
“The Bassa-Nge Kingdom remains peaceful, and its traditional institution remains intact and respected. We are committed to safeguarding our heritage and will continue to resist any attempt to misrepresent or undermine our collective unity” it assured.
