By; ADAMA JOHN, Lokoja
The Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello has presented the Staff of Office to the 27th Ohimegye Igu of Koton-Karfe Kingdom, HRM. Saidu Akawu Salihu midweek.
The paramount ruler doubles as the Chairman, Lokoja/Kogi/Koton-Karfe Traditional Council received the baton of authority in His Koton-Karfe Palace adorned with loud ovation by well wishers.
An elated Governor Bello thanked the good poeple of Koton-Karfe for standing by the truth and allowing due process in the selection of the Ohimeghe of Koton-Karfe.
Responding, the Ohimege Igu of Koton-Karfe thanked Governor Bello for standing by the truth and making way for justice.
His words, “I thank Allah for seeing this day and thank the government of Kogi State under the able leadership of His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Bello for the boldness in righting a monumental wrong. By this singular action he has saved our well cherished age long traditional institution from public ridicule and prevented the rubbishing of the decision of our kingmakers.
“I call on every son and daughter of the kingdom, at home and in diaspora, to be united and promote our collective values and cultural antecedents to ensure the continuous growth of our kingdom”.
He advised the people of his kingdom to eschew bitterness, crime and other vices that are alien to the culture of the people and inimical to the development of the kingdom.
He promised to work with all well-meaning sons and daughters of the kingdom to promote the welfare of the people.
” I shall promote justice and fairness in all ramifications as these are the basic ingredients for peace and progress in our communities. Koton-Karfe kingdom has direct border with the Federal Capital Territory yet, has a near zero federal presence.
“I want to use this opportunity to appeal to the Federal government to take advantage of the peace, security and the physical location of Koton-karfe Kingdom to locate prominent parastatyls and institutions in the Kingdom.
“I also appeal to both the federal and state governments to consider sons and daughters of Koton-Karfe in distribution of appointments both at federal and state levels”.
He promised to serve with Humility, Integrity and Dedication and to uphold the traditions and values of our kingdom.
“I will be a listening ear, a strong advocate and a bridge builder. My doors will always be open and your voices will always be heard. With your support and the grace of Allah, I am confident that we will create a future filled with pride, harmony and boundless opportunities”.
Dr. Saidu Akawu Salihu was born on 11th March, 1964 to the family of Late Chief Salihu Umar Danmadaki of Odaki- Koton-Karfe in Kogi Local Government Area of Kogi State.
His Royal Majesty started his Primary School Education in Kogi L.S.B Koton-Karfe between 1970-1976.
In 2012, HRM Salihu contested the position of Ohimege and the Kingmakers endorsed him but the dethroned Ohimege got the support of the previous administration and was installed on the 12th of October, 2012.
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