In a bold move to address growing concerns over insecurity, Governor Yahaya Bello has taken decisive action, ordering the deposition of three traditional leaders in Kogi State. The leaders, accused of gross misconduct and fueling insecurity, now face the consequences of their actions.
Governor Bello, citing adherence to traditional and chieftaincy laws, rules, and regulations, announced the removal of Alhaji Abdulrazaq Isah Koto, the Ohimege-Igu Koton-Karfe, who also serves as the Chairman of the Lokoja/Kogi Local Government Area Traditional Council. Alhaji Koto is set to be deposed to Rijau Local Government Area of Niger State.
Similarly, the Olu Magongo of Magongo, His Royal Highness Sam Bola Ojoa, is to be deposed to Salka, Magama Local Government Area of Niger State. Another deposed traditional leader is His Royal Highness Samuel Adayi Onimisi, the Obobanyi of Emani, who is slated to move to Doko, Lavun Local Government Area of Niger State.
Governor Bello emphasized that the deposition of Onimisi stemmed from the contentious upgrade of the title “Obobanyi of Ihima” to first-class status. He revealed that the promotion was done without consideration for an ongoing legal dispute over the title. As a result, the stool is reverted to “Obobanyi of Emani,” and the present occupant remains deposed.
In addition to the depositions, the governor announced the indefinite suspension of His Royal Highness Boniface Musa, the Onu-Ife in Omala Local Government Area, further underlining the gravity of the charges.
The governor’s decisive actions underscore the commitment to tackling insecurity and upholding the rule of law. The depositions and suspension send a clear message that misconduct and actions exacerbating insecurity will not be tolerated, even among traditional leaders who hold influential positions in their communities.
As Kogi State navigates these changes, the people await the ripple effects of the governor’s bold decisions on the overall security landscape and the restoration of stability within traditional leadership structures.
