Wali Zing investiture on Ribadu: One gesture, ripple effects
By Mohammed Ismail
The investiture of the revered title of Walin Zing on Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, Nigeria’s National Security Adviser (NSA) by Kpanti Zing, HRM Alh. Sulaiman Sambo marks a new chapter in the socio-cultural pact between Fulani and Mumuye civilizations. It is simply a masterstroke that unveils the renaissance of a deep rooted history punctuated by resilience, respect and mutual comradeship.
The gesture has re-established a cultural tie that has endured through centuries of coexistence, trade, intermarriage, and shared destiny.
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At a time when inter ethnic tensions and mutual suspicions continue to test Nigeria’s fragile unity, the honor done to Ribadu signals a profound message that peace, mutual respect, and cultural diplomacy remain indispensable tools for building a strong nation. It is a sturdy narrative that will continue to produce positive vibes through history.
Traditional titles in Northern Nigeria have become the thread with which new relations are sown and old ones strengthened. It is also a medium through which recognition is extended to non members of a given community who excelled in their chosen fields.
For Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the gesture did not merely embody a new traditional appellation but a recognition of decades of excellent and committed service to our fatherland. It also embodies more responsibility, trust, and honor from the Nigerian populace who continue to cherish Mallam for his enduring legacies, stout resilience, patriotism and sacrifice to the nation. The investiture of Walin Zing immediately after another fitting honour by the Lamido of Adamawa on Ribadu says it all.
The weight and significance of this honour will be more appreciated considering the reverence of Wali in the Mumuye sociopolitical hierarchy. It is reserved for individuals of proven integrity, leadership, and capacity to bridge divides between peoples.
Bestowing it on Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, Nigeria’s NSA and a son of Adamawa, was both a recognition of his national stature and a symbolic gesture of trust between the Fulani and Mumuye people.
Going back history lane, one will appreciate the wisdom of Kpanti Zing at cultural renaissance because of the fact that Mumuye, one of the largest ethnic groups in Taraba State, and Fulani, have interacted for centuries. Their contact dates back to the 19th century when the Fulani Jihad expanded eastward into the Upper Benue Valley.
While conflicts were recorded in some areas during the early years of conquest, the relationship that evolved between the Mumuye and Fulani over time was largely characterized by cooperation, interdependence, and cultural fusion. One of the unifying factors for the long lasting relationship was trade.
The Mumuye, known for their agrarian strength and crafts, exchanged food crops and cultural artifacts with the Fulani, who were traditionally pastoralists and long-distance traders.
Over the decades, intermarriages further blended the two civilizations, creating superb and time tested bonds that transcended ethnic boundaries.
That is why the recent investiture is seen as a watershed by the Fulani and Mumuye peoples especially as it comes at a time when Nigeria is navigating the challenges of ethnic polarization, insecurity, and mutual suspicion.
The conferment of the Wali Zing title on Ribadu serves as a powerful counter-narrative, one which demonstrates that communities can still reaffirm their bonds of solidarity despite the pressures and dynamics of modern times.
The gesture also hold important lessons for Nigeria. At a time when insecurity and mistrust are rife, cultural gestures such as the honour done to Ribadu are strong indicators that peace can be achieved through the instrumentality of cultures, dialogue, respect, and recognition of excellence.
It is my fervent belief that this special gesture will also strengthens Ribadu to continue to work for the good of all Nigerians who continue to cherish his sacrifices for the benefit of all and sundry.
Ismail, Editor-in-chief of FACTCHECKNEWS writes from Yola.
