Association Declares 5-Day Mourning For Kogi Monarch

The Magongo Development Association (MDA) has declared a five-day mourning over the death of a traditional ruler, the Olumagongo of Magongoland, His Royal Highness, Sam Bola Ojo.

The revered monarch, according to the association, passed away peacefully in the early hours of yesterday.

In a statement signed by the national president of the MDA, Prince Jordan Alaba Akpata, described the deceased  as a distinguished custodian of Magongo’s cultural heritage and a symbol of peace, wisdom, unity and selfless service.

It noted that throughout his reign, the monarch remained committed to the progress, stability and development of Magongoland, leaving behind a legacy that would be remembered for generations.

To honour him, the MDA declared a five-day mourning period from 20th July to 24th July, 2026.

The association directed that all social celebrations, ceremonies and other loud festivities within Magongoland be suspended throughout the mourning period.

It also urged all sons and daughters of Magongo, both at home and in the diaspora, to observe the period solemnly in honour of the late royal father.

The statement also announced the postponement of all Magongo Development Association meetings during the mourning period, except emergency meetings convened by the association’s executive.

According to the statement, a condolence register has been opened at the MDA Secretariat and the Royal Palace and will be available for signing daily from 9 a.m.

The MDA expressed its condolences to the royal family, the people of Magongo, friends, associates and all those who had the privilege of working with the late monarch.

It prayed for the peaceful repose of the monarch’s soul and for God to grant the royal family and the entire Magongo community the strength to bear the loss.

The association added that the government, relevant traditional institutions and appropriate ministries, departments and agencies would communicate further details on the official funeral arrangements in due course.