…donates N3.5m to victims, people of Omala LGA, as LG Chair calls for FG’s collaboration to end clashes
The Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Audu visited Omala local government in Kogi State, recently attacked by herdsmen and bandits on April 4, 2024, which resulted in the death of over 25 people, with many injured, displaced or missing.
Audu, received at the local government headquarters in Abejukolo, expressed sympathy for the situation. He emphasised the importance of his visit to assess the destruction, understand the crisis’s root causes, and find effective interventions.
The minister donated N2.5 million and relief items to victims from Agojeju-Odo community in the IDPs’ camp and hospital. He also gave N1 million naira to some community members.
Expressing his duty to Kogi State and Igalaland, Audu pledged to convey the situation to the president and governor for their interventions. He urged unity and dismissed social media misinformation.
Visiting the IDPs’ camp, the minister assured support to end the terror, enabling normalcy. The local government chairman, Hon. Mark Edibo appreciated the minister’s visit and highlighted proactive measures taken to address the crisis.
Collaborative efforts of Federal and state governments were urged to resolve the conflict, with the establishment of security bases proposed. Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s actions were acknowledged to restore peace.
His Royal Highness, the Ogohi of Akpacha, Paul Achor commended the minister’s visit and recognised him as a true son of the land. He blessed the minister and bestowed upon him the chieftaincy title of Olimene Onu-Ife of Omala.
“You did not take time to come. You came here as soon as you returned from Umrah in Saudi Arabia, as the incident happened while you were away. You could have sent someone, but you came yourself. This means a lot to us, the people of Omala.
“We pray that God Almighty continue to bless and protect you and sustain you in your position as Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to bring more development to Igalaland,” the royal father stated.
The minister was also welcomed by other officials, emphasising unity and development in Igalaland. Among those who received him were the Kogi State Commissioner for Transportation, Hon. Levi Atulukwu; the Onu of Abejukolo, Onu of Agojeju-Odo, amongst others.
