Traditional rulers in Kogi West Senatorial District have pledged to strengthen collaboration with security agencies by adopting a community-based approach to address insecurity across Okunland.
The resolution was reached during a meeting of the Okun Area Council Traditional Authority held at the palace of the Obaro of Kabba, Oba Solomon Owoniyi, with first-class and other traditional rulers from the five local government areas in attendance.
According to a statement issued by Oba Owoniyi, the meeting focused on security, peace and development challenges affecting the region.
The monarchs commended President Bola Tinubu and Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo for ongoing efforts to improve security but stressed that greater cooperation between local communities and security agencies was needed to sustain the gains.
“The royal fathers resolved to work closely with security agencies and adopt a community-based approach that involves more people in the fight against insecurity,” the statement said.
The traditional rulers also shared security concerns from their respective communities and agreed on a united strategy to tackle common threats across the district.
In addition, the council intervened in a dispute involving two traditional rulers in Yagba West Local Government Area, directing that the matter be withdrawn from court to allow for peaceful reconciliation.
Meanwhile, the Okun Youth Leaders and Stakeholders Forum commended the Tinubu and Ododo administrations for improved security in the district and endorsed Hon. Sam Aro Bemidele as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the Kogi West Senatorial District.
The group attributed recent security gains, including the reported killing of suspected bandit leader Batijo, to increased investment in security infrastructure, intelligence gathering and collaboration with local security outfits.
