•Tasks community on security
By Ojotule Romanus
Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has elevated the Oba of Yoruba Community in Lokoja, HRH, Oba Bello Audu-Oke (popularly known as Owoniboy), to a first-class chief, in recognition of the community’s contributions to the peace, unity and development of the state.
Governor Ododo announced the elevation while receiving members of the Yoruba Community on a courtesy visit to Government House, Lokoja.
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The Governor said the Yoruba community had remained steadfast in its support for his administration without making undue demands, describing the upgrade as a well-deserved recognition rather than a politically motivated gesture.
He assured the community that his administration would also consider their other requests, including appointments for qualified sons and daughters of the community, the provision of a security vehicle for the monarch and increased access to government palliatives.
Governor Ododo further announced that the State Government would take full responsibility for the medical expenses of the monarch to enable him receive quality healthcare to discharge his traditional responsibilities effectively.
He commended the Yoruba Community for its unity, peaceful disposition and unwavering support for his administration, reaffirming his commitment to delivering the dividends of democracy to all residents of Kogi State, irrespective of their political affiliation, ethnic background or place of origin.
The Governor also advocated stronger collaboration between the Okun people and the Yoruba community in Kogi State, saying greater integration would further promote unity and strengthen the collective interests of the people.
In his remarks, the Oba of the Yoruba Community in Lokoja, HRH, Oba Bello Audu-Oke, commended Governor Ododo for what he described as remarkable achievements in security, infrastructure, healthcare and his cordial relationship with traditional rulers across the state.
The monarch assured the Governor of the continued support and loyalty of the Yoruba community, expressing confidence in the administration’s performance while restating that there would be “no vacancy in Lugard House” in 2027.
He also described the Governor as the “Jagunmolu” (one who fights and triumphs) of the Yoruba Kingdom, emphasising that he is a courageous leader who overcomes every challenge.
Earlier, the Chairman of Yoruba Community in Kogi State, Sir Olu Ajagbe, reaffirmed the community’s commitment to peace, unity and the continued development of the state under Governor Ododo’s leadership.
He appealed to the Governor to appoint qualified Yoruba sons and daughters into key positions in government, provide community mobilisation vehicles and consider other requests aimed at strengthening the relationship between the Yoruba Community and the Kogi State Government.
Also speaking, the State Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara (Rtd), praised the Yoruba community for its unity and consistent support for the State Government.
He further urged members of the community to sustain their cooperation with security agencies by remaining vigilant and providing timely and credible intelligence to help strengthen security and maintain peace across the state.
