By Musa Tanimu Nasidi
The Ohimegye-Igu Koton-Karfe, HRH Sai’du Akawu Salihu has urged Kogites to be advocates of peace and pray for the success of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo led administration in Kogi State.
The Traditional Ruler gave the charge on Monday when thousand of people including farmers, market women and title traditional holders paid him Sallah homage in his palace in Koton-Karfe.
The monarch, who is also the Chairman of Lokoja/Kogi/Koton-Karfe Traditional Council commended Governor Ododo for his remarkable achievements within his short time in office, adding that, the people of Kogi State are satisfied with his exemplary leadership style.
“Am calling on the people of Kogi State to support the government of Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to succeed. They both need our support to achieve Kogi State and Nigeria of our dream. It is our duties to pray for our leaders for Almighty Allah to give them divine direction to lead us to the path of development” he stated.
According to him, the nation needs collective efforts from all stakeholders to tackle the present challenges bedevilling the Country today.
On the Chieftancy title given to five prominent personality in the Local Government, the Monarch noted that they have all dintinguished themselves to the service of humanity.
He said “We are urging them to continue the good work they have started in Kogi Local Government. With this, we are optimistic that they will do more for our communities”
Speaking at the occasion, the Kogi State Commissioner for Solid Minerals and Natural Resources Engr. Bashiru Gegu described Kogi Local Government as a kingdom of peace and tranquility.
“We are very happy that God gave us a peaceful, intelligent royal father in person of HRM. Saidu Akawu Salihu. People who know him as a person know him to be a trust worthy person.
Since he ascend the throne of our ancestors, there have been wide jubilation and acceptance by the people of Igu kingdom.
“Today, we are witnessing the first Sallah celebration since he ascended the throne of our ancestors. We are happy and we know that the kingdom will continue to enjoy peaceful coexistence among the people in their various communites”.
The Commissioner appealed to all and sundry of Kogi Local Government to be law abiding and make peace as their watch word adding that, this is the only thing that can attract development to their kingdom.
On the prompt payment of salaries by the Government of Kogi State under Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, the Commissioner averred that, the present administration remains committed in improving the welfare of workers in Kogi State.
“Since the inception of this administration, salaries where paid before the 25th of every month. This June, salary was paid before the 14th to enable workers celebrate this Sallah. It is not a miracle but the hand work of Alhaji Yahaya Bello who laid the foundation for his successor to follow.
“The foundation he laid is currently working for the State. He has served this State meritoriously. During his time, there was transparency, accountability and good governance. He has ensured that all the backlog of loans that we met on ground were upset, therefore bringing something good for the new administration.
” That is the reason Governor Ododo who is a good learner learnt fast and knows where it pinches us and what the society needs. Since former Yahaya Bello has laid a good foundation for the State, his successor which is Governor Ododo is complimenting his efforts of good governance. That is the reason salaries are being paid before 25th of every months” he added.
