By Our Reporter

The 2025 Sallah Fiesta at the prestigious Keffi Polo Ranch turned into more than just a celebration of the season—it became a powerful display of cultural solidarity and emerging political tides in Nasarawa State. The highlight of this year’s festivities was the high-profile visit of revered Agatu traditional leaders from both Benue and Nasarawa States to Senator Ahmed Wadada Aliyu, the Sarkin Yakin Keffi, at his ranch residence.

The royal delegation, comprising a tapestry of Agatu heritage, brought together voices from across clan lines. Leading the group was HRH Chief Jerry Ochola, third-class chief of Agatu West, along with a host of other traditional authorities including the King of Adogoji Clan, the Chiefs of Ogan, Ogule Ogbadu, Oshugbudu, Usha, Enungba, Engela, and Ogule Ankpa. Significantly, members of the Ogbangede Clan—Senator Wadada’s maternal lineage—were also present, adding a deeply personal layer to the gathering.

This visit, following the spirited polo match at the Keffi Polo Ranch, was not just ceremonial. It was spiritual, political, and deeply communal. It symbolized a unified front of leaders recognizing and endorsing the Senator’s evolving role not just as a statesman, but as a bridge between cultures, communities, and aspirations.

The emotional crescendo of the visit came when Chief Attahiru Sani, Chief of Usha, led fervent prayers for Senator Wadada. With hands raised and voices united, the elders invoked divine guidance and protection for the Senator Wadada who many believe is positioning himself for a major political contest in 2027—the Nasarawa State governorship.

In a powerful show of cross-state unity, HRH Chief Jerry Otula, the Agatu leader from Benue, added his voice with heartfelt supplications, asking God to bless the Senator’s path. In his remarks, he offered glowing praise for Senator Wadada’s vision, describing the Keffi Polo Ranch as a testament to his developmental mindset. “This is my first time in a place like this,” he said, visibly moved. “What I see here is more than a ranch. It is a beacon of peace, a hub for youth engagement, and a symbol of what our region can become.”

Yet, amidst the celebration, Chief Otula raised a heartfelt plea. He drew attention to the security crises plaguing Agatu communities in Benue, urging the Senator to leverage his national voice to advocate for lasting peace and intervention.

Senator Ahmed Wadada, clearly touched by the delegation’s presence and prayers, responded with humility and gratitude. He acknowledged the spiritual and symbolic weight of their blessings, reaffirming his dedication to public service and inclusive leadership.

“I am deeply honoured by this visit,” he said. “Your prayers are not just for me—they are for the future of our people. They strengthen my resolve to continue working for peace, unity, and meaningful progress.”

Senator Wadada also emphasized his concern for the security challenges raised by the Agatu leaders, promising to advocate for stronger support and sustainable peace-building efforts across affected areas in both Nasarawa and Benue States.

The presence and open endorsement by Agatu leaders at the Keffi Polo Ranch may prove to be a significant moment in Nasarawa’s political narrative. For observers, it signaled not only support for Senator Wadada’s anticipated governorship ambition, but a rare cross-state alignment rooted in heritage, vision, and trust.

As the sun set over the sprawling ranch grounds and traditional drums echoed in celebration, the Agatu elders capped their visit with goodwill messages, calling Senator Wadada a “worthy son of the land.” They described him as a leader whose qualities—humility, foresight, and capacity—are not only recognized but deeply respected across Nigeria.

In an era often marked by political division, the gathering at Keffi Polo Ranch offered a refreshing reminder: that leadership, when grounded in service and unity, can transcend borders and ignite hope in the most powerful way.