By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
Traditional rulers in Kogi state have been charged to ensure peace and security of lives and property in their domains.
The outgoing governor of Kogi state Alhaji Yahaya Bello gave the charge on Friday in Lokoja while presenting staff of office to the newly appointed Maigari of Lokoja, Alhaji Ibrahim Mohammadu Kabir Maikarfi 1V.
Governor Bello who also presented the staff of office to Maiyaki of Kupa, Alhaji Dauda Kabir Isah in Lokoja on Friday commended indigenes of Lokoja and Kupa for the peaceful conduct displayed during the selection processes of their new monarchs.
He charged the traditional rulers to sustain peace, unity and cohesion while urging them to galvanize all the people together and expect prosperity, growth safety and security.
Governor Bello narrated that within the last 8 years, God gave him a very unique opportunity to oversee the installation of more than 6 paramount rulers without any rancour and disagreement and such an event happened in all the three senatorial districts of the state.
He added that throughout these periods several insinuations circulated over some of the vacant positions which the government was able to navigate through and resolve amicably.
He thanked the people of Lokoja who have given his government the support through out his years of leadership, adding that his successor would build on the foundations his government has laid.
He urged the newly installed royal fathers to give their overwhelming support to the administration of the governor-elect which according to him is a continuation of his administration, assuring that, he would always render helping hands towards the development of Kogi state.
The newly installed Maigari of Lokoja, Alhaji Ibrahim Kabir Markarfi IV, who gave the vote of thanks on behalf of the traditional rulers, thanked God almighty, the governor of the state and all those who have made the day a reality.
He promised to pay attention to promoting, security, safety, tourism and contributing maximally to the urbanisation plan of the state capital, Lokoja.
He pointed out that the traditional institution would continue to collaborate with the government and private stakeholders to fast track landmark development and progress to their respective region.
