Wukari is a historic town in southern Taraba State and the seat of the Aku Uka, the paramount ruler of the Jukun people. Jukun kings are traditionally regarded as sacred figures at the heart of the kingdom's rituals.
The Jukun are associated with Kwararafa, a powerful state that dominated the Benue valley and raided as far as Kano in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. Today Wukari is also a university town and a market centre for the surrounding farms.
Top things to do in Wukari
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Visit the Aku Uka's palace
The palace of the Aku Uka is the centre of Jukun tradition and royal ritual. Visits are by arrangement, and visitors should follow the customs explained by palace officials.
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Learn Jukun history
Elders and cultural custodians in Wukari keep the history of the Jukun and Kwararafa alive through oral tradition, ceremonies and royal regalia.
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See a traditional festival
Jukun festivals, such as Puje, bring royal rites, music, dancing and gatherings of people from across Jukun communities to Wukari.
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Browse the market
Wukari's market sells yams, rice, grains, palm oil, fish and livestock from the fertile farmland of southern Taraba.
Upcoming events in Taraba
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Festivals and culture
Jukun royal and traditional festivals are the highlights of the year in Wukari, along with Christmas, Eid and university events.
Food to try
Try pounded yam or tuwo with okra, vegetable or beniseed soup, fresh fish from the Benue tributaries, roasted yam and local beer brewed from guinea corn.
Best time to visit
November to February is dry and best for travel. The rainy season, from about May to October, can make rural roads difficult.
Getting around
Tricycles and motorcycle taxis cover the town. Wukari is a few hours from Jalingo and from Makurdi by road. Check current local advice before travelling.
Questions about Wukari
Who is the Aku Uka?
The Aku Uka is the paramount traditional ruler of the Jukun people, based in Wukari.
What was Kwararafa?
Kwararafa was a powerful state associated with the Jukun that dominated the Benue valley in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries.
How do I find events in Taraba State?
Browse upcoming festivals, concerts, parties and free events in Taraba State on Shows.ng, and filter by today, this weekend or this month.
