Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Usman Ododo, has condemned acts of vigilantism following the alleged killing of a Fulani settler in Isanlu, Yagba East Local Government Area. The governor issued a statement on Monday, urging the people of Kogi to uphold the rule of law and refrain from taking justice into their own hands.
In response to the incident, Governor Ododo convened an emergency security meeting in Lokoja on Saturday, aimed at addressing the situation and preventing further violence. The meeting involved community leaders, Fulani settlers, and government officials, with the goal of fostering peace and stability in the area.
Governor Ododo stressed the gravity of vigilantism, stating that individuals responsible for such acts would face the full force of the law. He directed that certain traditional rulers in the affected areas be questioned to uncover the root cause of the conflict, and even suspended one traditional ruler due to their involvement.
The governor called on Isanlu community leaders to caution their people against activities that contribute to insecurity, and urged the identification and handover of criminal elements to law enforcement.
The statement highlighted that the meeting was successful, with both the Isanlu community and Fulani representatives agreeing to the governor’s call for peace. Governor Ododo commended the Fulani community for their restraint in avoiding a reprisal attack, thanking them for their maturity and commitment to peace.
Governor Ododo reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to ensuring the safety of all residents in the state, pledging to tackle criminality regardless of ethnic background.
