News From Igala Kingdom | Idah, Kogi State, Nigeria
In a move toward preserving the rich cultural heritage and historical legacy of the Igala Kingdom, His Royal Highness Ali Yusuf Ameadaji III, the Achadu Oko-Ata and Prime Minister of the Igala Kingdom, has appointed renowned scholar and cultural advocate, Ambassador (Dr.) Valentine Opaluwa, Ph.D., as the Aka Ohiala/Aka Ohiaka of the Igala Kingdom, the kingdom’s official Palace Historian.
The appointment, conveyed in a formal letter dated May 18, 2026, recognizes Dr. Opaluwa’s remarkable contributions to preserving, documenting, and promoting the history, oral traditions, and cultural identity of the Igala people.
According to the Achadu Oko-Ata, the title of Aka Ohiala/Aka Ohiaka, which means “the one who tells the history and story of the Igala Kingdom,” is reserved for individuals who have shown exceptional commitment to preserving the kingdom’s heritage and collective memory.
In the letter, the royal father highlighted Dr. Opaluwa’s strong ancestral roots and his lifelong dedication to safeguarding the oral traditions handed down through generations.
He noted that the scholar’s extensive research into the origins, settlements, genealogies, indigenous rights, and customary land systems of the aboriginal communities of Idah and the wider Igala Kingdom has earned him recognition as one of the most respected voices on Igala history.
“Your work strengthens the identity, continuity, and pride of our ancient nation,” the Achadu stated, commending Dr. Opaluwa’s scholarship and unwavering commitment to cultural preservation.
As Palace Historian, Dr. Opaluwa will be responsible for preserving and interpreting the histories, oral traditions, and genealogies of the Igala people.
He will also advise the palace on historical and cultural matters, serve as the kingdom’s official storyteller and chronicler, promote the transfer of indigenous knowledge to younger generations, and represent the palace at cultural, traditional, and academic engagements.
The appointment also grants him full recognition as a Senior Cultural Officer of the Palace, with all the rights, honours, and privileges attached to the revered office of Aka Ohiala/Aka Ohiaka in the Igala Kingdom.
Many observers have described the appointment as both timely and strategic, coming at a period when indigenous cultures and traditional knowledge systems face increasing threats of erosion and extinction.
They believe the decision will strengthen efforts to preserve and properly document the history and traditions of the kingdom for future generations.
While congratulating the new Palace Historian, His Royal Highness Ali Yusuf Ameadaji III expressed confidence in Dr. Opaluwa’s ability to uphold the sacred responsibility entrusted to him and to continue protecting the dignity, heritage, and collective memory of the aboriginal people of Idah and the entire Igala Kingdom.
The appointment has been warmly welcomed by cultural stakeholders, traditional institutions, and members of the Igala community, many of whom see it as a well deserved recognition of scholarship, cultural preservation, and selfless service to the Igala nation.
The appointment takes immediate effect.
