Eid l Kabir: Ilorin holds Grand Durbar in style, amidst international presence

By Jimoh Sulyman
Amidst Music, pomp and fanfare, the city of Ilorin holds its annual Grand Durbar at the ancient palace of the Emir of Ilorin, His Royal highness, Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, Sunday.
The event which is annually held on the second day of Eid l Kabir creates an avenue for the convergence of the natives of the city and showcasing of the culture of the people to the world.

One of the notable items of the occasion which catches the fancy of all those that were present is the grand horse riding, as riders gallop with their stallions across the asphalt of the palace square.
In the build up to the occasion, in the morning ,the Emir of Ilorin along massive crowd in a rally procession across the city along some designated routes.
As the crowd who have gathered at the palace square await the return of the Emir to the palace, they were entertained by several local musicians and performers.

The occasion was graced by several dignitaries including the Kwara state Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Ex Minister and Kwara central PDP senatorial candidate, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi and his opponent from APC, Mallam Saliu Mustapha among others.

The occasion has however enjoyed commendation from the international community as the representative of UNESCO, Dr Uche Ibeh was full of praises as she describes it as as Beautiful display of culture.
She also noted that her organization is convinced that occasion such as the Grand Durbar can help sustain culture and development, saying that, “UNESCO is convinced that no development can be sustainable without a strong culture component.”

Ibeh added that, “ the solutions we seek to major global challenges lie in our taking full advantage of our cultural heritage.
On this, I challenge our cultural sentinels to do all they can to promote cultural revival.
I thank you for inviting me and congratulations once again.”
Similarly, The representative of Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation, Mrs Nana Yakubu also describe the cultural showcase at worthy of emulation and must be sustained by the people.