By joshua KOGI MOURNS AS ALHAJI ZAKARI DANGANA, ONOGIE OF AFEMAI LOKOJA, DIES AT 86
_…Traditional ruler turbaned in 2020 by late Maigari of Lokoja passes on Saturday_
It is with a heavy heart that the Afemai community in Lokoja announces the passing of Alhaji Zakari Dangana, the Onogie of Afemai Lokoja. The revered traditional ruler died in the early hours of Saturday, June 4, 2026, at the age of 86.
Prayers will be offered for the deceased at the Lokoja Central Mosque by 2:00pm on Saturday, after which his remains will be conveyed to his hometown for final interment in accordance with Islamic rites.
Alhaji Zakari Dangana was turbaned as Onogie of Afemai Lokoja in 2020 by His Royal Highness, the late Maigari of Loko,ja, sHis Royal Highness, Alhaji Ibrahim Gambo Kabir Maikarfi IV. His reign, though brief, was marked by his commitment to unity, peaceful coexistence, and the welfare of the Afemai people in the Kogi State capital.
The Afemai community, and well-wishers across the state mourn the loss of a father, leader, and custodian of culture whose counsel and presence brought stability to his people.
In a statement issued by Abu Micheal, Chairman Afemai Progressive Union, Lokoja, described the death as a very big blow on the Afemai people.
He described the late Onogie as a father to all, maintain that his reign brought prosperity to son’s and daughters of Afemai in Lokoja.
He prayed for the peaceful repose of the late Traditional Ruler, condole with his immediate family, the entire people of Afemai in Lokoja.
May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.