The Kogi State Governor, Capt Idris Wada, has once again emphasized the need for robust collaborative efforts between the traditional rulers and the government in the maintenance of peace and security.
Capt Wada restated the need for the collaboration on the occasion of the presentation of staff of office to Oba Ayodele Irukera, the Elegbe of Egbe and Chairman, Yagba West Traditional Council, at Egbe, Kogi State.
The governor who was represented by his Deputy, Yomi Awoniyi, said the need for collaboration has become pertinent in view of the present security challenges in the country.
Capt Wada urged royal fathers to step up their efforts in assisting to make Kogi State uninhabitable for men of the underworld.
Capt Wada described traditional rulers as symbols of collective pride, culture and history of the people, said in recognition of the importance his administration places on the traditional institutions, it has ensured that vacant chieftaincy stools are filled.
The governor maintained that aside the appointment of the Attah Igala and President, Kogi State Council of Chiefs, the Ohimege Igu of Koton Karfe, Chairman Kogi Karfe Area Traditional Council and the Aguma of Bassa and Chairman of Bassa LGA Traditional Council, the administration has appointed and presented staff of office to over thirty second class and third class traditional rulers across the state.
The governor pointed out that without peace, development will be retarded, note with satisfaction the prevailing peace and tranquility in the state, and commended royal fathers for providing the necessary leadership for peace. The Governor urged all well meaning citizens in the state to complement the efforts of traditional rulers in ensuring peace.
The Governor congratulated the Elegbe of Egbe for the successful ascension to the throne of his forefathers, urged him to faithfully discharge his lawful duties as the custodian of the culture and tradition of the people.
Capt Wada urged the Elegbe to rededicate himself to the challenges of his new office by providing the much needed rallying point for the unity, peace and progress of his domain, asked him to serve as a good bridge between the people and government’s at all levels.
The Governor congratulated the king makers and family members of the ruling house whose turn it was to present the current Elegbe for their quick response to the call for the appointment, commended them for not allowing the ugly trend of rancour and acrimony that usually accompany the choice of royal fathers to bedevil their community.
He appealed to other communities in the state yet to fill vacant chieftaincy positions to borrow a leaf from the people of Egbe by ensuring that such appointments are peacefully and smoothly processed for the approval of the state government.
In an address by the commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affiars, Abubakar Sadiq Ainoko, said the emergence and presentation of staff of office to Oba Ayodele Irukera, followed due process, commended Capt Idris Wada for making the traditional institution a cardinal aspect of his transformation agenda.
In his speech, Engr Ayorinde Makanjuola, Chairman of Yagba West Local Government Area, appreciated Capt Idris Wada for the presentation of the staff of office, said the people of the area will remain eternally grateful.
Responding, Oba Ayodele Irukera, said he will pursue the issues of peace and unity as well as promote peaceful resolution of inter and intra community differences a priority.
Oba Ayodele, assured the kogi state government and people of the area his unflinching commitment at peaceful coexistence.
