For the people of Bassa Local Government Area of Kogi State, peace is more than a political slogan—it is the foundation upon which farming, commerce, education, family life and community development depends.
Consequent upon the Administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, Bassa LGA have been enmeshed with communal clashes between the Bassa Kwomu tribe and the Egbura Mozum tribe. In recent times, efforts by the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo to strengthen security and promote peaceful coexistence across Kogi State have provided renewed confidence that the affected communities Bassa LGA can look forward to a more stable future. These measures have significance for rural communities in Bassa, where security is closely connected to the ability of farmers to access their farms, traders to conduct business and families to live without fear.
Bassa LGA is a strategically important Local Government Area with numerous rural communities and large population whose livelihoods depend substantially on farming, fishing and local commerce.
When insecurity affects a community, the consequences go beyond immediate threats to lives.
Farming activities can be disrupted, markets can suffer, children can become vulnerable, and development projects can be slowed.
That is why the efforts of Mr Governor have yielded positive improvement in security across parts of Bassa LGA. A full fledged Military Forward Operational Base is situated at Oguma, coupled with serious security stakeholders engagements have been ongoing. Also the recent disbursement of funds to various affected communities deserves huge commendations, while continued vigilance remains necessary.
While acknowledging the government’s efforts, the restoration and preservation of peace in Bassa LGA cannot be the responsibility of Mr Governor alone. Traditional rulers, youth leaders, women groups, religious leaders, community associations, security agencies and ordinary citizens of Bassa LGA all have important roles to play.
The Government can provide security infrastructure and personnel, but lasting peace requires communities to reject violence, provide credible information to security agencies and embrace dialogue when disagreements arise.
For both the Bassa Kwomu and Egbura Mozum person, the restoration and preservation of peace should remain a shared priority. Every peaceful farm, every open market, every child who goes to school safely and every family that sleeps without fear is a reminder of why security matters.
– Hon Yizogembi Solomon Abwa
Bassa.
