The Kogi State Traditional Council of Chiefs, on Monday paid a visit to Governor Yahaya Bello to condole with him over Saturday’s attack on his convoy by supporters of the candidate of Social Democratic Party (SDP), Murtala Yakubu Ajaka.
The Attah Igala HRM, Alaji Mathew Opaluwa Ogwuche-Akpa, who led the visit, condemned the attack, labeling it as a criminal act that must not be repeated in Kogi State going forward.
The paramount ruler cautioned politicians and their followers to ensure that their campaigns are conducted devoid of violence.
Narrating the encounter, Governor Bello said he was surprised by the conduct of those who attacked his convoy on Saturday.
The governor said he was originally scheduled to participate in the unveiling of the APC deputy gubernatorial candidate on Friday. However, due to a meeting of the Progressive Governors Forum with the President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, he requested the party to reschedule the program for Saturday.
Bello recounted that, as a result of a hectic week, he was taking a nap in his car while on his way to Lokoja when he noticed his convoy was not moving.
He said he inquired about the reason and was informed by his security details that it was Muri’s convoy causing the delay.
According to the Governor, despite frantic efforts by his security details to find a way through, he had no choice but to follow behind Murtala’s convoy from Koto Karfe to Lokoja, covering a distance of approximately 30 kilometers to the point his convoy was attacked.
The governor described the attackers’ actions as criminal, emphasizing that such lawlessness would never be tolerated in the state.
He called upon the security forces, including the traditional rulers, to play their part in ensuring the continuity of peace in the state ahead of the election. He stressed the need for collective efforts to combat criminality and firmly stated that there is no room for division in Kogi State.
Governor Bello commended the traditional rulers for their proactive and fatherly guidance, expressing his appreciation for their visit and sympathy.
Offering prayers, the Ohimege-Igu of Koto Karfe, Abdulrazaq Isah Koto emphasized that the state, which has enjoyed significant peace and tranquility under the leadership of Governor Yahaya Bello, will continue to remain peaceful.
He urged politicians to adhere to the established rules.
