By Olajumoke Obatomi
The Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Usman Ahmed Ododo has presented staff of office to the 1st Class Chief, Akinrin of Ekinrinland, HRH Oba Johnson, Kolade Otitoju.
Governor Ododo congratulated the people of Ekinrinland in particular and Ijumuland in general and expressed hope that the Akinrin will uphold the rich and colourful history of the kingdom, ushering in a new era of prosperity.
Noting that traditional rulers are the closest to the people and are saddled with the responsibility of protecting them, Governor Ododo expressed his administration’s readiness to support the traditional rulers in the fight against criminality, as the need arises, and urged them to cooperate with the state government in her quest for a better Kogi State. According to him, all hands must be on deck for the good of the people of the State.
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Barr Salami Momodu Ozigi Deedat in his welcome address observed with satisfaction that the eventual presentation of staff of office to the Akinrin of Ekinrinland, HRH Oba Johnson Kolade Otitoju is the result of a stringent process of screening and verification.
Barr Ozigi described His Excellency’s approval of the presentation of 1st Class staff of office to the Akinrin as a courageous step in the right direction, adding that Governor Ododo operates with fairness, equity and justice.
Congratulating HRH Oba Johnson Kolade Otitoju, Barr Ozigi urged the Akinrin to provide effective leadership towards peace and prosperity in the kingdom.
Mr Babajide Kolade Otitoju, a veteran journalist and son of the Akinrin described his father as a strict disciplinarian, adding that the upbringing he was given by his father shaped him into what and who he is today.
The event which took place in Lokoja attracted sons and daughters of Ijumuland as well as well-wishers from all walks of life, home and abroad.
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