Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has emphasized the need for enhanced collaboration between the state government and traditional institutions to foster development and maintain peaceful co-existence across the state.
Governor Ododo made this call during the presentation of the staff of office to the newly installed Akinrin of Ekinrin-Ade, His Royal Highness Oba Johnson Kolade Otitoju, in a ceremony held at the Government House in Lokoja on Friday.
In a statement issued by the Special Adviser on Media to the Governor, Ismaila Isah, Governor Ododo lauded the cultural heritage of the Ekirin-Ade community and urged the newly appointed Akinrin to leverage his position to promote unity and harmony among his people.
Governor Ododo also highlighted the importance of traditional rulers in supporting community policing efforts and attracting investments that can spur rapid development within their domains. He stressed the need for a cooperative relationship between the traditional institutions and his administration, noting that traditional rulers serve as the closest authority to the grassroots and play a crucial role in the peace and progress of the state.
Furthermore, the Governor underscored the role of traditional institutions in upholding moral values within communities and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting traditional rulers as custodians of culture and tradition. He also cautioned against the indiscriminate sale of land to individuals posing as investors, warning that such actions could undermine the interests of local communities.
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Barr. Salami Ozigi Deedat, also spoke at the event, commending Governor Ododo for his dedication to equity and justice.
He congratulated the Akinrin of Ekinrin-Ade and urged the community to work closely with their traditional ruler to ensure peace and prosperity in the area.
