In a significant move to decongest the Kogi State capital, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo on Friday signed into law, the restriction of heavy duty trucks within Lokoja metropolis.
Signing the bill alongside six others, the Governor explained the decision was long overdue noting that the increasing risks posed by unregulated movement of heavy trucks necessitated immediate and decisive action to restore order, reduce accidents, and improve the flow of traffic in the city.
The other bills signed into law were to establish, the Kogi State Oil Producing Area Development Commission (as amended), Kogi State Climate Change Agency, Kogi State Emergency Management Agenc, Kogi State Independent Electoral Commission, Commodity Exchange and Export Promotion, and Kogi State Bureau of Lands.
Speaking shortly after the signing ceremony at the Government House, the Governor expressed deep appreciation to the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Aliyu Umar, and the members of the House for what he termed their “deep sense of responsibility and commitment to good governance.”
He noted that the bills reflect a shared vision to improve the lives of Kogites and strengthen key pillars of development across the state.
Governor Ododo declared his administration’s readiness to implement the new laws with urgency, dedication, and fairness.
According to him, “These laws are not just mere words on paper; they are bold steps toward reshaping critical sectors of our development journey, from oil-producing community advancement to electoral reform, land management, environmental protection, and urban regulation.”
Governor Ododo urged the people of the state to take the newly signed laws seriously, stressing that they were designed for their benefit.
He warned that anyone who violates the law, regardless of status, would be held accountable, underscoring his administration’s zero-tolerance policy on impunity.
“I remain committed to delivering a Kogi State that works for all,” the Governor said. “A state where governance is not about promises but about action; not about words, but about impact.”
He concluded by reaffirming his dedication to responsible leadership that places the people at the center of every decision, stating that the true measure of governance lies in the lives it transforms.
Earlier, the Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Umar commended the Governor for his development strides in the state, assuring him of the cooperation of the House of Assembly. He urged the Governor to throw all his political will behind the smooth implementation of the laws.
He specifically eulogized the governor for sponsoring what he termed, “People -oriented” laws, saying some of the bills have taken care of some agencies that have been operating in the state for more than 30 years without legal backing.
He however urged the state governor to help digitize the House of Assembly Complex, in order to enhance their administrative efficiency.
He also said that two other bills will soon be passed to the executive for the governor’s assent.
