By Muslimat Itopa
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, on Tuesday paid a working visit to Olamaboro Local Government Area and toured some security flashpoints in the area.
In line with his administration’s promise to remain connected with the grassroots, the Governor during the visit engaged stakeholders on ways to strengthen peace in the area.
The governor was received by a large crowd at the Okpo Ceremonial Square, where he expressed delight over the unity and peaceful disposition of the people.
I am delighted, most delighted, and very happy to be here today with you. I appreciate the good work of my great people in Olamaboro. You have chosen peace and unity, and I thank you for believing in us and entrusting us with your mandate to serve,” Governor Ododo said.
He recalled that one of his prayers before the election was that no life should be lost in his quest to become governor, noting that the peaceful conduct of elections in Olamaboro and across the state gladdened his heart.
Governor Ododo also commended stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for conducting peaceful and crisis-free primaries, describing the process as orderly and reflective of the will of the people.
According to the governor, the visit was specifically aimed at addressing security concerns in Olamaboro, stressing that security remains a collective responsibility.
Government alone cannot secure our communities without the cooperation, vigilance and unity of the people. Traditional institutions must provide moral authority and early warning. Youths must refuse to be used by enemies of peace, while community leaders must report suspicious movements,” he said.
Youths must refuse to be used by enemies of peace, while community leaders must report suspicious movements,” he said.
Governor Ododo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to securing every part of Kogi State, including Olamaboro Local Government, through strengthened collaboration with security agencies, community-based intelligence, and decisive action against criminal elements.
He highlighted ongoing reforms in the state’s security architecture, including the recruitment and training of hunters, the adoption of vigilante operations, and improved synergy between conventional security agencies and local security structures.
“We have invested heavily in security. With the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has made more resources available to sub-national governments, we will confront criminality decisively. Olamaboro is a land of peace and promise, and we must not allow criminals to derail that promise,” the governor added.
Earlier, the Chairman of Olamaboro Local Government Area, Mr Williams Ameh, commended the Governor for his swift response to the council’s call for security support.
He said over 120 security personnel, including rapid response units, anti-kidnapping squads, monitoring teams, and Nigerian Army personnel, had been deployed to strengthen security in the area.
The chairman also praised Governor Ododo’s administration for several developmental projects in Olamaboro, including the commissioning of schools, healthcare facilities, a basketball and volleyball court, a central mosque, road projects, and the renovation of primary healthcare centres.
The Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Monday Aridaoju; the Special Adviser on Labour Matters, Onu Edoka; and former Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Gabriel Olofu in their separate speeches described the governor’s visit as a strong demonstration of love, solidarity, and commitment to the people of Olamaboro Local Government.
They assured the governor of the unwavering political support of the people and appealed for continued attention to critical road projects and infrastructural development in the area.
Speakers at the event noted that Governor Ododo is one of the few governors to personally visit the area in recent decades, describing the visit as historic.
The visit ended with chants of solidarity and renewed assurances of support for the governor’s administration and future political aspirations.
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