Gov Ododo visits Ibaji communities, calls for peace after deadly clash

Kogi Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Ododo, on Friday visited Iyańo in Ibaji Local Government Area following the recent communal crisis between the Ishi and Itale communities that claimed lives and destroyed property.

The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Comrade Joel Salifu, said the visit was to assess the situation firsthand, restore calm, and reassure residents of the government’s commitment to protecting lives and property.

Addressing members of the affected communities, Governor Ododo urged residents to embrace peace and avoid actions capable of escalating the conflict. He assured them that his administration would continue working with security agencies and community leaders to ensure lasting peace and stability in the area.

He reiterated the commitment of the Kogi State Government to safeguarding lives and property across the state and called on youths, elders, and community leaders to cooperate with security agencies in maintaining law and order.

The governor also appealed to residents to remain calm and law-abiding, assuring them that necessary measures would be taken to prevent a recurrence of the violence.

Speaking earlier, Mr. Idah Ojone explained that the dispute between the two communities began in 2020 over disagreements surrounding ownership of palm fruits, yams, and fish ponds in the disputed area. He said attempts to resolve the matter through traditional institutions failed, prompting both parties to seek legal redress.

Ojone noted that despite the court process, reprisal attacks had continued over the years, with the latest violence resulting in deaths and destruction of property. He, however, commended the state government for its swift intervention.

Also speaking, the State Security Adviser, retired Commander Jerry Omodara, said the government and security agencies would investigate the root causes of the crisis to prevent future occurrences, stressing that blame would not be placed on any of the parties involved.

Earlier during the visit, Governor Ododo paid a condolence visit to the Ejeh Ibaji and Chairman of the Ibaji Traditional Council, His Royal Highness John Egwemi, where he sympathised with the royal father and the people of Ibaji over the losses recorded during the crisis.

The governor’s delegation included the Deputy Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Comfort Nwuchiola Egwaba, Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Timothy Ojoma, Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Hillary Ojoma Egwudah, as well as security personnel from the Nigeria Police Force, the military, vigilante groups, and other stakeholders.