A leading house of representatives candidate in Dekina/Bassa federal constituency, Hon Usman Okai Austin, has called on governments at all levels to find a lasting solution to the lingering civil unrest in Bassa local government area of Kogi State.
The human rights activist and politician during a press briefing at his Abuja residence was quoted as saying, “Our existence is being threatened and the peaceful society we crave and wrestle so hard to sustain is fading away in our own eyes.
‘The unfortunate and reprehensive killings arising from communal clash in Bassa local government area must be put to an end and the state government reserve the exclusive secure architecture to make this happen within a day if he truly prioritizes the well-being of his subjects.”
He calledon the people of Bassa Komu and Egbura Mozum to embrace peace and tolerate one another
‘As a people united in purpose, if we are not ready to embrace peace and tolerate one another, then we’ll all be vulnerable to threats and danger of unknown.
“I am particularly heartbroken by series of unfortunate but avoidable controversies that had caused unrest in Bassa local government in these few days and I wish to call for immediate ceasefire by all warring parties and give peace a chance.
“There can never be development without peace and tolerance among one another. the current crisis is totally needless and I therefore urge leaders of the communities involved in this needless controversies to wade in and find a lasting solution to the crisis,” he said.
Okai called on Kogi state government to go beyond rhetoric and address the issues from its roots, having in mind that the primary duty of government is to protect its citizens.
He added that the inhabitants of Bassa local government are dire need of Yahaya Bello’s adminstration.
‘In my own capacity, I shall do all that is necessary to ensure that peace is restored in Bassa land, We cannot continue to play the ostrich.
“The leaders in Bassa local government area must come with a firm resolve to end this carnage militating against the progress of the people.
“I sympathize with those who lost their loved ones and properties in this crisis and urge you all to maintain calm and avoid every temptation and incitement of any form that may lead to more loss of lives and properties.
“I also want to sincerely urge you not to take law into your hands. We must as a people learn to build bridges and accommodate people regardless of tribe, religion and political affiliation so as to build and sustain a peaceful and prosperous society,” he concluded.
