Kogi monarchs unite to fight kidnapping, banditry

Traditional rulers from Oworo land in Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State have resolved to work together to tackle insecurity and strengthen unity for the development of their communities.

The royal fathers made the resolution during a stakeholders’ meeting of Oworo traditional rulers and title holders on Sunday in Lokoja.

The meeting was convened in line with traditional law to review pressing issues affecting the state, with security, unity, and socio-economic progress at the centre of deliberations.

Opening the session, the Olu of Oworo and Chairman of the Oworoland Traditional Council, Mallam Mohammed Adoga Baiyerohi, said periodic meetings were necessary to take stock of the community’s challenges.

“As provided by our traditional law, we are supposed to meet from time to time to take stock of situations affecting our community.

“Key issues include unity among the people, security, and the socio-economic activities of our people, and how these are being disrupted,” Oba Adoga said.

The council expressed deep concern over the rising insecurity in Oworo land.

The Olu of Oworo noted that the area’s location had made it a target for kidnappers, bandits, and other criminal elements who exploit its proximity to the River Niger as a hideout and escape route.

“Our land provides a very easy route for them to sneak in and out. This is a challenge we are contending with,” the royal father stated.

He commended Gov. Ahmed Ododo for his hands-on approach to tackling insecurity across Kogi State, noting that the governor had personally visited forests and troubled areas, day and night, to curb criminal activities.

“We appreciate him and pray that God continues to assist the governor. We will only rest when our people can live in peace.

“As long as these nefarious activities continue, we will keep engaging with the government. The relationship between us and the governor will continue to grow stronger,” the Olu added.

The traditional ruler urged the people of Oworo land to set aside political and historical differences and prioritise unity as the foundation for development.

“For development to thrive, it must be preceded by unity and peace. Peace and unity are the gateway to development. We must come together to promote peace, unity, and progress in our land,” he said.

Other traditional rulers who contributed at the event included the Olu of Apata, HRH Oba Fedrick Balogun JP; the Bajana III of Obajana, HRH Oba Idowu Isenibi; HRH Oba Ismaila Zakari, the Ohiribo-Keta of Karara; and HRH Oba Abubakar Alugbere, the Masi of Agbaja.

Other traditional title holders at the meeting were Chief Gabriel Agoyi, the Obajemu of Oworoland; Chief (Dr.) Denja Abdul, the Marafa of Oworoland; Chief Aiyedogbon Berida, the Eleson of Oworoland; and Chief A.G. Abdullahi, the Baani of Oworoland, among others.

At the close of the meeting, the council resolved to strengthen collaboration between traditional institutions, the Kogi State Government, and security agencies to improve safety and accelerate development in Oworo land.

The council emphasised the need for traditional rulers to unite and carry their subjects along in efforts to advance Oworo land.

The council further proposed the institution of an Oworo Day cultural festival to foster unity and suggested deploying technology to strengthen security against banditry and other crimes.