Monarch Flees for Life as Arsonists Invade, Sets Palace Ablaze

By Emmanuel Kwada

In a shocking incident, hoodlums attacked the palace of Etsu Nupe Lokoja, HRH Emmanuel Akamisoko Dauda-Shelika, Nyamkpa IV, burning down a vehicle in the early hours of Saturday. The monarch was forced to flee for his life, escaping through the back door and scaling the fence to safety.

I had a big bang on my door, and I woke up to check through the window, wondering what could have happened

Recalling the terrifying ordeal, the Etsu Lokoja said, “I had a big bang on my door, and I woke up to check through the window, wondering what could have happened. Then, I suddenly saw wild fire coming out of my car, as it had been set ablaze by attackers”.

Despite the efforts of his neighbors, the fire destroyed the monarch’s car and other belongings in the palace. The Etsu Lokoja has appealed to the government and security agencies to investigate the attack and bring the perpetrators and their sponsors to justice.

I urge my people to remain as peaceful and law-abiding as we have always been

He also urged the Nupe natives in Lokoja to remain peaceful and law-abiding, advising them to avoid any form of reprisal attack. “I urge my people to remain as peaceful and law-abiding as we have always been, because this incident has drawn the attention of government to our issue”.

The incident occurred just as the Nupe Natives of Lokoja Development Union was preparing to host the 2nd Edition of Nupe Natives end-of-year event, tagged “Lokoja ’24 Nupe Cultural Fiesta”.