His Royal Majesty Matthew Opaluwa Oguche Akpa II: 28th Attah Igal

Early Life and Background

Matthew Opaluwa Oguche Akpa II was born in 1954 into the Opaluwa Oguche Akpa ruling house of the Igala royal dynasty, in Idah, Kogi State, Nigeria.

• His lineage is directly tied to the ancient Igala monarchy, one of the oldest in West Africa.
• Grew up deeply connected to Igala traditions while also pursuing modern education and career paths.

Education and Career

• Attended primary and secondary schools in Kogi State.
• Furthered his education in administration and public service.
• Worked in the Nigerian Immigration Service, where he rose to the rank of Deputy Comptroller-General before retiring.
• His career gave him a wealth of experience in governance, leadership, and diplomacy.

Ascension to the Throne

• Following the passing of Attah Michael Idakwo Ameh Oboni II in August 2020, the search for a new Attah began.
• On 27 October 2021, Matthew Opaluwa Oguche Akpa was officially installed as the 28th Attah Igala, taking the regal title Agabaidu (Great Lion).
• His enthronement marked the first time the Opaluwa Oguche Akpa royal family produced an Attah, ending decades of rotation among other ruling houses.

Reign and Leadership

Custodian of Tradition

• As the Attah, he is the spiritual and cultural father of the Igala people.
• Presides over major festivals like:
  • Ocho Festival – celebrating harvest, unity, and thanksgiving.
  • Princess Inikpi Memorial – honoring the legendary princess who sacrificed her life for the survival of the Igala kingdom.

Peace and Unity

• Advocates for peaceful coexistence among diverse communities in Kogi State.
• Works to reduce communal clashes and promote dialogue.
• Calls for unity among the Igala diaspora across Nigeria.

Developmental Advocacy

• Promotes education, youth empowerment, and cultural revival.
• Encourages the younger generation to take pride in their Igala heritage while pursuing modern opportunities.
• Engages with government and stakeholders on issues of development and inclusion for Kogi State.

National Influence

• Member of the Kogi State Traditional Council and the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria.
• A respected Middle Belt monarch, his voice carries weight in national discussions about culture, peace, and governance.

Personal Traits

• Known for his discipline, humility, and integrity, shaped by both royal heritage and his years in public service.
• Regarded as a bridge between tradition and modernity, able to relate to both elders and the younger generation.

Legacy and Significance (So Far)

• First Attah from the Opaluwa family, symbolizing inclusivity and renewal in Igala kingship.
• Strengthening Igala cultural pride at a time of identity challenges in Nigeria.
• Seen as a monarch who combines ancestral authority, modern leadership, and moral integrity.

Conclusion

Matthew Opaluwa Oguche Akpa II, the 28th Attah Igala, is more than a monarch — he is a custodian of centuries-old Igala heritage, a promoter of peace, and a leader committed to development. His reign marks both a continuation of tradition and the beginning of a new era for the Igala people, ensuring that their culture, unity, and pride endure in the 21st century.