By Waziri Isa Adam (Group Editor-in-chief)
The Ikulu Chiefdom is mourning the loss of its revered monarch, Agwom Ikulu, Chief Yohanna Sidi Kukah, who passed away at the age of 71. Chief Kukah was a highly respected traditional leader who played a significant role in promoting peace, development, and progress in his community.
Born on July 20, 1953, in Anchuna Sarki, Ikulu Chiefdom, Zangon Kataf Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Chief Kukah was born into the family of Kukah Gado and Amanta Kukah. He was the younger brother of the Archbishop of the Sokoto Catholic Diocese, Bishop Matthew Hassan Yohanna Kukah.
As the Agwom Akulu II, Chief Kukah was the head of the Akulu Traditional Council of Akulu (Ikulu) Chiefdom, with its headquarters in Fadan Ikulu, Kamuru.
Chief Kukah’s early life was marked by resilience and determination. Despite the challenges of his time, he pursued education at LEA Primary School Anchuna Sarki between 1966 and 1971. He later ventured into tailoring and fashion design, showcasing his creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. In 2004, he earned his Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE), demonstrating his commitment to lifelong learning.
Chief Kukah’s journey into traditional leadership began in 1973 when he registered as a member of the Ikulu Traditional Association. He served in various capacities, earning the respect and admiration of his people. His commitment to community development led to his appointment as the District Head of Anchuna in 2001, a position he held until he became the Agwom Akulu in 2010.
As the Agwom Akulu, Chief Kukah demonstrated exceptional leadership, promoting peace and resolving conflicts through dialogue and traditional mechanisms. His reign was marked by significant achievements, including the construction of a community-owned palace, a police outpost, a community healthcare center, and a customary court. He also ensured his community’s active participation in national exercises, including the 2006 Population Census and the 2007 General Elections.
Chief Kukah’s dedication to peace and development earned him numerous awards, including the Ikulu Development Association and Ikulu Youth Merit Awards, the TASKIRA NEWS PAPERS award, the Kaduna State Primary Health Care Development Agency (KSPHCDA) Award of Distinguished Service, and the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) Commandant Award.
The late monarch was a man of faith, having visited the state of Israel in fulfillment of one of the Christian religious obligations. He was fluent in Ikulu, Hausa, and English languages. In his leisure time, he enjoyed playing table tennis, watching football, and listening to traditional music.
Chief Kukah is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, and many relations. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come, upholding the values of unity, hard work, and communal development that he envisioned for the Ikulu Chiefdom.