Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has commended security agencies for restoring peace to Bagana community in Omala Local Government Area of the state.
Ododo gave the commendation on Monday when he visited the Forward Operating Base, (FOB) in Bagana community.
He specially commended troops of the Nigerian Army, Navy, Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, (NSCDC) and vigilantes for ensuring that people that were displaced during violent crises between Agatu and suspected herdsmen returned to their ancestral homes safely.
Governor Ododo said his administration remained committed to serving the people and securing lives and properties in the state.
He recalled when he visited the community during the crisis, saying he was perplexed by the level of destruction of lives and properties.
Ododo added that his administration will not relent in its determination to flush out criminal elements out of the state.
According to him, the security in Bagana and its environs has improved immensely since the establishment of the Forward Operating Base, (FOB), hence he decided to come for an on the spot assessment.
“We are here to appreciate you for the good work you are doing.
“These gallant troops are the reason why the people of Kogi State are sleeping with their two eyes closed.
“My coming here is a commitment to serve my People and to ensure that lives and livelihood are secured.
“The last time I was here, I assessed the disturbing rising insecurity in this community.
“After interacting with my people, I promised that every measures will be put in place for the establishment of Forward Operating Base in Bagana to secure the lives and properties of the people,” he stated.
He thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support in the establishment of the FOB in Bagana , adding that the improved security in Bagana is a testament of his administration unwavering commitment to lead a peaceful, united , and a progressive Kogi State.
His words : “I was elected to make sure that the lives of my people are protected, hence my resolved to be here with the gallant troops to get first hand information.
“I must commend all the collaborative efforts of security agencies for working together in making sure life returns to this community.
“The last time I was here, I went with tears. But today, we are all jubilating because peace has come back to this people.
“I want you all to know that the government of Kogi State is with you in ensuring the success of your operations in Omala Local Government.”
Governor Ododo, who is vising Bagana for the second time since he assumed office promised to provide all the logistics support to enable the gallant troops succeed in their assignment.
A residents of Bagana, Apostle Peace Peter Simion appreciated Governor Ododo for restoring peace in the community, urging him to rebuild all the infrastructure that were destroyed as a result of the crisis.
“We want to express our deep appreciation to His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, the Executive Governor of Kogi State for his decisive actions and commitment in ensuring the deployment of Nigerian military forces to Omala LGA, which has significantly contributed to restoring peace and stability in the area.
“We are appealing to the Kogi State Government to prioritize the rebuilding of the communities affected by these repeated attacks, specifically Bagana, Agojeju-Odoh, Agbenema, Iyade, and other villages within Omala Local Government, “he said.
Another resident, Halimat Abu called on the State Government for the urgent renovation of Abejukolo General Hospital as well as basic healthcare and educational facilities in the affected communities.
“The government should ensure that the returning residents have access to medical care and educational opportunities, particularly as people begin to resettle in their ancestral homes due to improved security,” she added. (vitalnewsngr.com)
