Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo on Sunday received the Chief Imam of Iyara land, Sheikh Quasim Musa, who regained his freedom from his abductors on Friday last week.
Recalled that the unknown gunmen suspected to be Fulani Herdsmen kidnapped the Religious Leader at his residence in Iyara on March 25th 2024.
But Governor Ododo while receiving the Imam and a delegation from Iyara led by the Caretaker Chairman, told the Chief Imam to see the incident as a trial of faith and vowed to nip the current rate of kidnapping in the bud.
He directed security agencies in the state to up their game and adopt a proactive mechanism in safeguarding lives and property of residents.
The Governor emphasized the need for people of the State to cooperate and support Government with necessary information that will help win the war against insecurity.
According to him, his administration will not relent effort in providing the needed support to security agencies that will help them perform them duty optimally.
The governor appreciated the delegation for the visit and assured them that the victim will get adequate medical attention at the expense of the Kogi State Government.
Speaking earlier, the Transition Caretaker Chairman Ijumu Local Government Area, expressed delight over the safe release of the Chief Imam and lauded the Governor for the support provided during and after the trying moment.
“I am excited and give glory to God Almighty for the answered prayers and Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for his swift response to this. His intervention made all the difference”, the caretaker said.
“We are thankful to him on behalf of Ijumu Local Government Area. We are extremely grateful and also thanked all the security agencies.”
Also speaking, the National President of Iyara Development Association, Alh. Aliyu Badaki conveyed the appreciation of the people of Iyara to Governor Ododo For his concern during the turbulent time.
He expressed appreciation to the immediate family of the Imam, Traditional Rulers, Council of Ulamau, JNI, CAN and well wishers for demonstrating uncommon love during the kidnap saga.
He also saluted the gallant hunters and local vigilance groups for yielding to calls for doing an excellent job.
