By Ejire Folakunmi
Traditional rulers and community leaders from Kupa, Kakanda, Oworo, and Eggan communities in Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State have commended Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for notable improvements in security across the area.
The leaders gave the commendation during a meeting with the governor, where they acknowledged his administration’s efforts in tackling insecurity, particularly in the challenging terrains of Lokoja II Constituency.
In his opening remarks, the Executive Chairman of Lokoja Local Government Area, Abdullahi Adamu, praised Ododo for demonstrating strong commitment to the safety and well-being of residents. He noted that the governor’s proactive security measures have helped restore public confidence across the council area.
Speaking on behalf of the traditional rulers, the Maiyaki of Kupa Land, Dauda Kabir Isa, expressed appreciation for the government’s efforts in dislodging bandits and other criminal elements from affected communities.
“We commend your resolute efforts in securing our communities. The actions taken to drive out bandits and other criminal elements have restored a sense of safety that many families had lost,” he said.
He added that improved security has enabled farmers to return to their fields, traders to move freely, even at night, and children to attend school without fear, describing peace as “the most valuable gift” the administration has delivered.
The royal father, however, appealed to the governor to prioritise the reconstruction of the Jamata–Budan–Abugi–Eggan road to enhance accessibility and stimulate development in the area. He also acknowledged ongoing infrastructural projects across the state.
Also speaking, the Director General of the Kogi State Bureau of Public Procurement, Sunday Ehimoni, noted that the governor’s policies have positively impacted the welfare of the Oworo people, particularly in healthcare, education, and overall well-being.
The member representing Lokoja/Kogi Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives also highlighted projects facilitated to the constituency and pledged additional logistical support to strengthen security efforts. He commended the governor’s people-oriented leadership style.
Similarly, the Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Aliyu Yusuf Umar, expressed gratitude to the governor for enhancing security and restoring public trust in the government’s ability to protect lives and property.
In his response, Governor Ododo thanked the traditional rulers and community leaders for their continued support and cooperation, emphasising that collaboration between communities and security agencies remains vital to sustaining peace.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and refrain from actions that could undermine security efforts, warning against harbouring or shielding criminal elements. The governor reaffirmed his administration’s firm stance against criminality, stressing that his government would not negotiate with criminals.
Ododo also commended Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support in strengthening security efforts in the state and fulfilling commitments to Nigerians.
He assured residents that road infrastructure within the constituency remains a priority, adding that key roads, including those requested by the communities, would be addressed to boost economic activities, particularly in agrarian areas.
