I recently came across a concern that truly moved me which is the ongoing neglect of Ozi community when it comes to something as basic, yet vital, as street lighting. This is the kind of plea we expect to hear more often. This is the kind of initiative we hope those who support our leaders will champion.
Ozi is not just a small corner in Kogi Local Government; it is a vibrant, diverse community with two polling units and over a thousand registered voters. It is home to six to eight different tribes, living in harmony. This community has, time and time again, stood firmly with the All Progressives Congress (APC), delivering over 70% of its votes to the party except in the last governorship election where one of the polling units leaned toward the SDP. Even then, the loyalty and support of Ozi for the APC remain clear.
Yet, in Kogi LG today, while many communities are benefiting from the installation of solar street lights. Thanks to the efforts of both elected and appointed officials in such communities though Ozi remains in the dark. Literally.
The absence of street lights in Ozi is not just a matter of inconvenience. It’s a safety issue. It’s a matter of security. The people cannot move freely at night. The risk of crime increases under the cover of darkness and it leaves residents, especially women and children, vulnerable. This is not the kind of life they deserve not after the support and trust they’ve consistently shown.
I am calling on our leaders and stakeholders to act “now.” To our Distinguished Honourable Commissioner for Solid Minerals and Natural Resources, Chief Abubakar Bashir Gegu ; Kogi LG Treasurer, Yusuf Ohikwura Abdullahi ; Member of the State Assembly, Hon. Idrees Aliyu ; Senator representing Kogi West, Sunday Karimi and Hon. Danladi Suleiman Aguye , Member of the House of Representatives, your voices, your positions and your influence can make a difference.
This is not a luxury. It is a necessity. Please, let the light reach Ozi. Let this community feel the presence of leadership it has always believed in. I am confident in your ability to deliver because APC does not forget its own.
When you light up Ozi, you light up your name in the hearts of the people. And long after the light poles rise, your names will continue to echo in the streets of this grateful community.
Please, let’s make this happen.
– Abdulkadir Bin Abdulmalik
Founding Member, APC Kogi Local Government,
Kogi State.
