The Senate has called upon the Federal Government to honor the memory of Dr. Abdulralman Ibrahim, the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, by naming the Federal College of Education, Okene after him. This moving proposal, championed by the esteemed Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, resonated deeply with the Red Chamber.
In addition to this gesture, the Senate observed a solemn minute of silence in honor of the late monarch, paying their respects to a distinguished life well-lived.
The Senate’s compassion extended further as they resolved to send a condolence letter to the bereaved family of Ebiraland, offering their sympathy during this period of mourning.
This tribute and resolution arose from the consideration and adoption of a motion titled “Demise of Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, Dr. Abdulralman Ado Ibrahim,” tenderly presented by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party representing Kogi Central. Her moving words were accompanied by the heartfelt wiping of tears from her eyes, underlining the profound impact of the late monarch’s passing.
Dr. Abdulralman Ado Ibrahim’s life was a tapestry of achievement and service. Born on February 7, 1929, he pursued his education diligently, attending both Western nursery and Quranic schools, culminating in a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics from the London School of Economics, a Bachelor’s Degree in Mining Engineering from the University of Jos, and a Master’s Degree from Harvard Business School.
In 1997, following the passing of Ohinoyi Sanni Omolori, Abdulrahman Ado Ibrahim ascended to the Ebira throne as the third Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, a momentous occasion that captured the attention of thousands of Ebiras and international diplomats, broadcast across Nigerian television stations. His rule was marked by grace and grandeur, with the AZAD Palace, named after his son, standing as a testament to his reign’s splendor.
Beyond his regal duties, Dr. Abdulralman Ado Ibrahim was a bridge-builder, a peacemaker, and a social scientist who championed unity and harmony. He rose above the political strife within Ebiraland, displaying magnanimity even after the Supreme Court affirmed his appointment as the Paramount Traditional Ruler of the Ebira people in 2015.
He was not only a leader but also an incisive thinker and philanthropist, dedicated to the betterment of his people and humanity at large. His passing is an immense loss, leaving a void in his family, Ebira Clan, Kogi State, and Nigeria as a whole.
As senators paid their tributes, they wholeheartedly endorsed the motion’s prayers, demonstrating their deep respect for a life well-lived. Indeed, Dr. Abdulralman Ado Ibrahim’s legacy serves as an important reminder that a good name is a treasure beyond measure, far more valuable than material riches.
