Security is collective responsibility — Gov Ododo

The Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Ododo, has said that security is a collective responsibility, adding that “we are winning the war against insecurity, and we will not relent until peace and safety are restored across Kogi State.”

He also commended the people of Kabba for restoring peace and unity after years of division, describing their reconciliation as a powerful testament to collective strength and wisdom.

Speaking at the 2025 Kabba Day Celebration and ₦500 million Development Fund Launch in Kabba, Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area, the Governor, represented by his Deputy, Comrade Joel Salifu, hailed the people for overcoming internal strife that had prevented the celebration in previous years.

“Today, I see hope restored. I see a people who have chosen peace over pride, and unity over division,” the Governor said. “You have proven that Kabba’s strength lies not in conflict, but in togetherness.”

Governor Ododo commended all stakeholders who contributed to restoring harmony, including the Security Adviser, Rtd Commander Jerry Omodara, the Executive Chairman of Kabba-Bunu LGA, Barrister Zaccheus Dare Michael, and the Obaro of Kabba, Oba Solomon Owoniyi, for their leadership and fatherly guidance.

Launching the ₦500 million development fund, the Governor emphasised that true development thrives only in peace. He called on the Kabba Development Union to prioritise leaders with capacity, character, and commitment above all else.

On security, Governor Ododo reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to sustain the fight against criminal elements, urging residents to support security agencies through vigilance and cooperation.

“Security is a collective responsibility. We are winning the war against insecurity, and we will not relent until peace and safety are restored across Kogi State,” he assured.

Governor Ododo celebrated the people of Owé land, both at home and abroad, for their investments and contributions to community growth, urging them to sustain the unity that has been regained.

“May unity remain our foundation, peace our culture, and progress our collective destiny,” the Governor concluded.

Earlier, in his welcome address, the President General of the Kabba Development Union (KDU), Alhaji Zachary Dare Ejibunu, called on the people of Kabba to unite against insecurity and work towards the development of their community.

He emphasised the importance of peace, unity, and collective action in overcoming challenges facing the community.

Ejibunu urged the people to support the completion of the Kabba Civic Centre, a landmark project that will serve as a hub for economic, social, and cultural activities.

The Obaro of Kabba, Oba Dr Solomon Dele Owoniyi, in his welcome address, commended the organisers for a successful event despite the short preparation time, emphasising that progress and development can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace, love, and unity.

The Chairman of the Occasion, Asiwaju Olatunji Olusoji, also commended the community for the monumental event, urging them to prioritise peace and unity, as this is the only way development can be guaranteed, being the headquarters of Okun nation.

He also urged all stakeholders to recognise the need to work together to achieve a common goal for the community.

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