The passing of His Royal Highness Agwom Akulu, Mallam Yohanna Sidi Kukah, on December 18, 2024, marked the end of an era for the Ikulu Chiefdom. A man whose devotion to the welfare of his people was unmatched, HRH Kukah’s legacy is one of humility, service, and unwavering commitment to peace and progress.
Throughout his reign, Kukah was a monarch who never hesitated to go the extra mile for the betterment of his people. He sought unity and development not only within the boundaries of his own domain but also extended his hand to neighboring regions, working alongside fellow monarchs in southern Kaduna to foster peace. His relentless dedication to the Bakulu people, spanning across Kauru, Kajuru, and Kachia LGAs with their administrative center in Kamuru-Ikulu, Zangon Kataf, has left an indelible mark on the community.
A Humble Beginning
Born on July 20, 1953, in Anchuna Sarki, HRH Kukah was the son of Papa Kukah Gado and Amanta Kukah. His early years at LEA Primary School in Anchuna Sarki were just the beginning of a remarkable journey. Though his birth might not have been marked by grandeur, Mallam Kukah’s life story would soon shine brightly. After completing his primary education, he delved into the world of fashion design, where his creativity flourished and gained him widespread acclaim. Despite his success, Kukah’s thirst for knowledge remained unquenched, leading him to work with a private tutor to pass the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE).
Kukah’s involvement in his community began early. He was a founding member of the Ikulu Development Association and served in various capacities from 1978 to 2001. His leadership skills were evident when he was elected Chairman of the Kaduna Chapter in 1999. As the first District Head of Anchuna in 2001, Kukah led numerous initiatives, encouraging community self-help projects and mobilizing his people for national activities such as the 2006 Population Census, Voter’s Registration, and the 2007 General Elections.
Under his leadership, the district of Anchuna Sarki flourished with new infrastructure, including an official residence for the district head, a police outpost, accommodation for youth corps members, a community healthcare center, and a customary court.
A Legacy of Peace and Unity
Mallam Kukah’s enthronement as the Agwom Akulu of Ikulu Chiefdom on August 27, 2010, marked the beginning of a new chapter for the chiefdom. His reign brought an era of peace and progress, with a notable focus on dialogue and collaboration. One of his most significant accomplishments was fostering relations with the Fulani population in Ladduga, where he successfully addressed issues like kidnappings, even becoming a victim himself.
Kukah’s leadership extended beyond the confines of his chiefdom. He was recognized with numerous awards, including the 2014 National Solidarity Youth Forum’s “Caring and Committed Traditional Leader” award, the 2015 Taskira Newspapers “Best Performed Royal Father Leadership Recognition,” and the 2019 Arewa Media award for the “Top Best Run Progressive Traditional Council in Service to Humanity.” In 2022, the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) Katsit honored him with the “Royal Promoter of Peace” award.
A Life of Service and Dedication
The late Agwom Akulu was not just a local figure; his influence reached beyond the borders of his chiefdom. He was a well-traveled man, with his journeys including a pilgrimage to Israel in 2000. Known for his soft-spoken nature, patience, and humility, Kukah’s legacy of service, unity, and peace will continue to resonate in the hearts of his people.
HRH Mallam Kukah leaves behind his wife, Queen Esther Maryamu Kukah, and six children. As a brother to the esteemed Bishop of the Sokoto Catholic Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Mathew Hassan Kukah, his passing has touched not only his family but the entire nation.
Final Farewell
The burial of the late Agwom Akulu will be a momentous occasion, drawing dignitaries from all walks of life. Political leaders such as Vice President Kashim Shettima and Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani are expected to attend, along with traditional rulers, clerics, and local government chairmen. The funeral service will begin at 10:00 AM today at the LEA Primary School in Kamuru-Ikulu, followed by the interment at the Royal Cemetery near the newly constructed Agwom Akulu Palace.
The wake-keep service held yesterday in his hometown, Anchuna Sarki, was a poignant tribute to a leader whose royal stewardship spanned over 14 years. His contributions to his people, his commitment to peace, and his love for his community will remain an enduring example of what true leadership should be.
May the soul of His Royal Highness Mallam Yohanna Sidi Kukah rest in eternal peace, forever cherished by the people of Ikulu Chiefdom and beyond.
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