Honoring Heritage: Prince John Ali Oriri Engages Communities in Preparation for the Installation of the Okanga Sisters

In a powerful demonstration of cultural preservation and grassroots leadership, Prince John Ali Oriri, Vice Chairman of Ado Local Government Council, embarked on a significant tour across communities including Odumoke, Ojaba’ije, and Anmeka. His mission was clear: to engage stakeholders and mobilize efforts toward the successful installation of the Okanga sisters under the Ijigban ward.

This initiative marks a defining moment for the people of Ado LGA and the broader Okanga Movement Worldwide, as it affirms a collective return to roots, values, and tradition — with the Okanga sisters at the center of this cultural revival.

The Okanga Sisters: Pillars of Tradition and Cultural Identity

The Okanga sisters are more than symbolic figures; they are living embodiments of ancestral legacy and traditional authority. Their role in the Ijigban ward is both spiritual and communal — serving as custodians of wisdom, harmony, and continuity. For generations, the Okanga sisters have represented a sacred lineage, entrusted with guiding the community through the lens of tradition, morality, and cultural pride.

Their installation is not merely ceremonial — it is a reaffirmation of identity for the Ijigban people and a rekindling of indigenous values in a time when modernization often threatens to overshadow them.

The sisters embody unity, resilience, and leadership — a trio of virtues essential to the social fabric of Ado and its surrounding communities.

A Visit Rooted in Purpose and Respect

Prince John Ali Oriri’s recent visit to Odumoke, Ojaba’ije, and Anmeka was carried out with humility and intent. It wasn’t just about logistics or protocol; it was about listening. Listening to the elders, to the custodians of tradition, and to the voices of the community — especially women and youth — who recognize the deep significance of the Okanga sisters in today’s cultural narrative.

During his visit, Prince Oriri engaged in open dialogue with traditional leaders, spiritual heads, and residents, seeking their guidance and endorsement in ensuring that the installation process is handled with the reverence it deserves.

Key Focus Areas of the Visit

1. Cultural Significance and Sensitization
   At the heart of Prince Oriri’s outreach was an emphasis on the cultural essence of the Okanga sisters. He reiterated the need for the community to embrace the installation not just as a ritual, but as a moment of pride, unity, and revival. His words echoed a call for every son and daughter of Ijigban to support and participate in the occasion.

2. Community Engagement and Ownership
   Prince Oriri made it clear that this is not a government-imposed initiative but one that must be owned by the people. By engaging with local voices, the planning process reflects inclusivity, authenticity, and collective responsibility. It also ensures that the ceremony resonates deeply with the cultural conscience of the people.

3. Logistical and Traditional Preparedness
   Practical steps were discussed to prepare for the installation — from selecting an appropriate venue to coordinating guests, preparing traditional attire, ensuring adequate security, and upholding every customary rite. Prince Oriri committed to supporting the community in these preparations while respecting their lead in all cultural decisions.

4. Preservation of Traditional Rites
   Perhaps the most critical point of the visit was the reaffirmation that no traditional step shall be skipped. The Okanga sisters’ installation must strictly follow the ancestral path — from invocation rites to blessings by the elders and communal feasts. Each ritual is a thread in the fabric of identity, and missing one would unravel the integrity of the entire process.

Symbol of Commitment and Legacy

Prince John Ali Oriri’s leadership style, grounded in humility and cultural consciousness, has drawn widespread admiration. By prioritizing this visit and placing the Okanga sisters at the forefront, he has demonstrated a unique understanding of the delicate balance between political leadership and cultural stewardship.

His actions have rekindled hope among cultural advocates and have energized members of the Okanga Movement Worldwide, who see in this moment a long-awaited opportunity to restore the honor of their tradition.

Looking Ahead

As plans for the installation ceremony continue to unfold, the momentum around the Okanga sisters grows stronger. Community members are preparing with joy and pride, not only for the event itself but for the cultural awakening it represents. The Okanga sisters, once again, are becoming beacons of strength, resilience, and unity.

Their presence, soon to be formally installed and celebrated, will serve as a guiding light for generations to come.

I remain,
Comrade Vincent Otse
A Proud and Dedicated Member of the Okanga Movement Worldwid