Governor ODODO Reporters

GOVERNOR ODODO REITERATES COMMITMENT TO PEACE AND UNITY

The Kogi State Government has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to fostering peace, unity, and mutual coexistence across all communities in the state. This was emphasized by the Executive Governor, His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, while addressing participants at the One-Day Peace Conference organized by the Ebira Muslims Peace Initiative in Okene. The conference, themed "Essence of Peace and Unity Among the Muslim Ummah," brought together Islamic scholars, community leaders, youth groups, and stakeholders from across Kogi State.

Governor Ododo commended the organizers for championing a platform that reinforces unity within the Muslim Ummah while fostering tolerance across ethnic and religious divides. He emphasized that sustainable development is impossible without peace, citing Kogi State's recognition as a model of peaceful coexistence due to the mutual efforts of citizens and the government's proactive peace-building strategies.

The Governor highlighted the role of government and religious leadership in securing long-term peace, noting that security is not achieved by force alone but through deliberate relationship-building and inclusive engagement. He stated, "Our major responsibility is to provide security for our people, and in providing that security, you must ensure unity of the land." He further emphasized the importance of engaging all critical stakeholders, including Islamic scholars, Christian leaders, and traditional leaders, to ensure peace and unity.

The Chairman of the Ebira Muslims Peace Initiative Committee, Ustaz Ismail Obosi Suleiman, also delivered a goodwill message, stressing the importance of unity among various Islamic sects across Ebiraland. He cited Qur'an 3:103, "Hold fast, all together, to the rope of Allah, and do not be divided," and called for inter-sect dialogue, focus on shared values, and rejection of political manipulation that seeks to worsen divisions.

The One-Day Peace Conference concluded with a renewed commitment by Islamic scholars, government representatives, and community stakeholders to strengthen peaceful coexistence and ensure that Kogi State continues to thrive as a united society. The government and people of Kogi State remain committed to promoting peace and unity, and we urge all stakeholders to join hands in sustaining the peace and stability that our state has enjoyed over the years.

Yahaya Shehu Ahmed, Senior Special Assistant on Digital Media to the Governor

Ambassador Alhaji Musa Yakubu, the Protocol Liaison Officer to the President, on Wednesday paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, at the Government House in Lokoja.

The visit centered on strengthening intergovernmental collaboration and harmonising federal–state engagements aimed at improving service delivery to the people.