By Obansa Ibrahim, Lokoja
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo has pledged to construct network of roads connecting communities in Ogori-Magongo local government area of the state.
According to Ismaila Isah, Special Adviser on Media to the Governor,
the Governor disclosed this in Magongo during the Owiya-Osese festival where he was the special guest of honour at the weekend.
Governor Ododo who stated that assessment on the state of the roads in the area was ongoing also promised to renovate the general hospital in the local government area as well as replace the recently installed transformer.
The Governor described the Owiya festival as a celebration of an ancient culture that has promoted unity, love and peace over the years noting that the celebration of young girls transitioning into womanhood was an invaluable tradition that has endured for generations.
He urged the ladies and participants in the ceremony to use the opportunity to preserve the sanctity and value of womanhood while aspiring to attain a brighter future.
The Governor who applauded the organizers for putting the state on the national tourism map, reiterated the commitment of the state government to peace and stability in all parts of the state, adding that the government would always support events that promote tradition, culture and tourism in the state.
Governor Ododo expressed appreciation for the confidence reposed in his administration by the people of Ogori-Mangogo to deliver on his development agenda but insisted that the people must key into the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu by embracing peace and reconciliation of all lingering conflicts between the people of Ogori and Magongo communities.
He called on traditional rulers, youths, women and other stakeholders to close ranks and work together for peaceful coexistence as a way of encouraging the government to concentrate more on the development of the state, stressing that no meaningful development can take place in an atmosphere of discord.
According to Governor Ododo:
“…the unity of the Ogori and Magongo people is pivotal for any meaningful progress to be achieved. And I urge you to work together to achieve peace so that I will be encouraged to return to this place very soon and be received by a united people and local government area.”
He admonished the citizens to shun violence and not allow themselves to be used by self-serving individuals who do not mean well for the peace, progress and development of the state and country, adding that leaders of the area should focus more on efforts to lift the people out of the present socio-economic plight instead of the prevailing mistrust among the people.
