By Emmanuel Kwada
A momentous occasion unfolded today as the Gongola People’s Forum (GPF) officially inaugurated the Council of Elders, a pivotal step towards fostering unity and self-determination among the diverse ethnic nationalities of the Gongola Region. The event, held at the prestigious Ribadu Square, drew a distinguished gathering of elders, dignitaries, and members of the community to commemorate a significant milestone in their collective journey.

His Excellency Markus Gundiri, the esteemed Chairman of the GPF, addressed the audience with heartfelt sincerity, expressing his gratitude for their presence at this historic gathering. “It is my singular honour and privilege to welcome you all, our esteemed Elders and people of the Gongola Region, to this august occasion that marks a milestone in inter-ethnic relations for the diverse ethnic nationalities of our region,” Gundiri proclaimed, his voice resonating with pride.
These achievements were made possible through the visionary and courageous leadership of Rt Hon Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri
Reflecting on the recent establishment of Chiefdoms and Emirates, Gundiri emphasized the relentless struggle of the indigenous peoples of the Gongola Region for self-determination and autonomy. “These achievements were made possible through the visionary and courageous leadership of Rt Hon Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri,” he stated, underscoring the importance of unity and perseverance in their quest for recognition.

The chairman highlighted the significance of a Grand Reception held on June 29, 2024, where past heroes of the Gongola struggle were honored with posthumous awards. “This declaration significantly announced to the Nation that we, as ethnic nationalities of the Gongola Region, have come of age. It sent out the message that the ethnic nationalities of Gongola Region are now united, and the distortion of our history and culture by outsiders has come to an end,” Gundiri affirmed.
Today, as we meet to inaugurate the Elders Council, we remember such legends as Mallam Yerima Ballah, Jonah Asadugu
As the ceremony progressed, the chairman paid tribute to the legendary figures who paved the way for the current generation. “Today, as we meet to inaugurate the Elders Council, we remember such legends as Mallam Yerima Ballah, Jonah Asadugu, and many others who must be smiling at us today as they see the breakthrough we have made in our age-old struggle for self-determination,” he said, evoking a sense of gratitude and responsibility among the attendees.
Gundiri emphasized the collective duty to honor the sacrifices of these heroes, stating, “We owe these heroes of the struggle the bounden responsibility to manage the success we have attained. We must not disappoint them nor the present and future generations of our people.”
What we have done in the Joint Council of the GPF, AUF, NILDC, NFF, and 3KT is to identify these stalwarts who will drive the Council for the other Elders and our People
The selection process for the Council of Elders was described as meticulous, with a vast pool of highly qualified candidates considered. “What we have done in the Joint Council of the GPF, AUF, NILDC, NFF, and 3KT is to identify these stalwarts who will drive the Council for the other Elders and our People,” Gundiri explained. Each Local Government Area (LGA) is represented by an eminent leader, ensuring that the council is well-equipped to address the diverse needs of the community.
The names of the newly inaugurated Elders were announced, with esteemed individuals such as HE Bala James Ngillari, General Bitrus Kwaji (rtd), and Hajiya Zainab Maina among those appointed to this influential body.
We are committed to working under your guidance and direction for the emergence of a truly just, equitable, and progressive society that will ensure inclusivity, equality, and justice in all its dealings
In closing, His Excellency Markus Gundiri assured the newly appointed Council of Elders of the unwavering support and loyalty of the Gongola people. “We are committed to working under your guidance and direction for the emergence of a truly just, equitable, and progressive society that will ensure inclusivity, equality, and justice in all its dealings,” he stated firmly.
With the formal inauguration of the Council of Elders, the Gongola Region stands poised on the brink of a new era—one characterized by unity, respect for diverse cultures, and a shared commitment to the progress of all its people. The echoes of history now serve as a foundation for a brighter future, as the community takes significant strides towards self-determination and collective prosperity.