The political leader of Kogi East, Vice Admiral U. O. Jibrin (Rtd.), has called on all Igala sons and daughters at home and in the diaspora to come together in a spirit of unity, forgiveness and reconciliation at the 2026 Italo Festival, scheduled for December 30 and 31, 2026.
In his message to the Igala people, Admiral Jibrin described Italo as more than a cultural celebration, stressing that it represents a valuable opportunity to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, preserve the rich heritage of the Igala nation and renew a collective commitment to a brighter future.
He urged Igala people to rise above religious differences, political affiliations, personal grievances and other divisions, emphasizing that the collective interest of the Igala nation must always take precedence over individual loyalties.
According to him, genuine development can only thrive where there is mutual respect, forgiveness, understanding and a shared determination to move forward together. He encouraged traditional rulers, political leaders, religious leaders, youth, women and professionals to embrace reconciliation and work towards a common Igala agenda.
Admiral Jibrin further called on Igala sons and daughters in the diaspora to reconnect with their roots, contribute their knowledge and resources, and actively participate in the cultural and developmental aspirations of their homeland.
He maintained that the strength of the Igala nation lies in its unity, adding that differences in faith and political beliefs should never become barriers to peaceful coexistence, cooperation and collective progress.
As preparations gather momentum for Italo 2026, the political leader urged everyone to make the festival a turning point in the journey towards a more united, peaceful and prosperous Igala nation.
“Let us come together as one people, forgive one another, heal old wounds and build a future that our children will be proud to inherit. We may belong to different political parties and worship in different ways, but we share one heritage, one identity and a common destiny as Igala people.”
He called on all Igala sons and daughters, both at home and abroad, to attend Italo 2026 in large numbers, celebrate their heritage with pride and renew their commitment to the unity, dignity and progress of the Igala nation.
