KOGI: Gov Ododo calls emergency meeting to address Fulani-community tensions

This meeting aims to address tensions between the indigenous community and Fulani settlers following allegations that a Fulani individual was killed by local residents.

The governor convened this meeting to hear both sides and take necessary action to ensure stability, preventing any potential retaliatory violence that could endanger the community.

According to a statement from Kingsley Fanwo, the State Commissioner for Information and Communications, the meeting was productive, with both parties agreeing to the governor’s call for peace.

Fanwo noted that the governor interrupted a trip to Abuja, where he was scheduled to receive an award, to address the rising security concerns in Isanlu.

He stated, “The Governor held an extensive meeting with the people of Isanlu and the Fulani representatives at the Government House in Lokoja, where he listened to their concerns and responded appropriately.”

The governor expressed his disapproval of individuals taking the law into their own hands and emphasized that such actions will not be tolerated, warning that offenders will face serious consequences.

He also instructed that certain traditional leaders in the affected areas be thoroughly questioned to uncover the root of the issues, and he has ordered the suspension of one traditional ruler due to his involvement in the situation.

Fanwo further mentioned that the governor urged Isanlu leaders to advise their community members against actions that threaten security in Yagba East and the broader Yagba Federal Constituency.

He emphasized the need to identify and report any criminals within their ranks, stating that his administration is committed to pursuing criminals of all backgrounds throughout the state.

The governor directly challenged the Isanlu community leaders to educate their residents about the importance of not engaging in illegal actions that pose security threats. He specifically called for an end to sheltering criminals and for active collaboration with law enforcement to tackle insecurity.

According to the commissioner, Governor Ododo assured that everyone living in the state would be protected, but made it clear that no criminal would escape justice.

The governor lauded the Fulani community for their restraint in not retaliating over the recent incident, commending their maturity, understanding, and dedication to maintaining peace.

He expressed appreciation for the Fulani leadership in the state for their support of the administration’s security initiatives, recognizing their efforts to uphold peace.

The emergency meeting was attended by top government officials, security representatives, community leaders, and Fulani representatives from the area.

Hon. Dare Joshua, the Chairman of the Local Government Area, expressed gratitude to the Governor for his prompt actions in averting a significant security crisis in the region.