Gov. Ododo lauds gallant troops for returning peace back in Bagana community, environs
Kogi State Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo has commended troops of the Nigerian Army, Navy, Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, (NSCDC), Vigilantes and other security agencies for restoring peace back in Bagana community and it environs in Omala Local Government after the people were sacked from their ancestral homes in the crisis between Agatu and suspected herdsmen from Benue State.
Speaking to the gallant troops when he visited the Forward Operating Base, (FOB) in Bagana on Monday, Governor Ododo noted that his administration remains committed to serve the people and secure the lives and properties in Kogi.
Governor Ododo recalled that when he had earlier visited the crisis community, he was perplexed with the level of destruction in the area adding that, his administration will not relent to flush criminals elements out of Kogi State.
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According to Governor Ododo, the security in Bagana and it environs has improved immensely since the establishment of the Forward Operating Base, (FOB), hence he decided to come for an on the spot assessment.
“We are here to appreciate you for the good work you are doing. This gallant troops are the reason why the people of Kogi State are sleeping with their two eyes closed. My coming here is a commitment to serve my People and to ensure that lives and livelihood are secured.
” The last time I was here, I assessed the disturbing rising insecurity in this community. After interacting with my people, I promised that every measures will be put in place for the establishment of Forward Operating Base in Bagana to secure the lives and properties of the people”he stated.
He thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support in the establishment of the FOB in Bagana adding that the improve security in Bagana is a testament of his administration unwavering commitment to lead a peaceful, united , and a progressive Kogi State.
His words “I was elected to make sure that the lives of my People are protected hence my resolved to be here with the gallant troops to get first hand information. I must commend all the collaborative efforts of security agencies for working together in making sure life returns to this community.
“The last time I was here, I went with tears. But today, we are all jubilating because peace has come back to this people. I want you all to know that the Government of Kogi State is with you in ensuring the success of your operations in Omala Local Government”.
Governor Ododo, who is vising Bagana for the second time since he assumed office promised to provide all the logistics support to enable the gallant troops succeed in their assignment.
A residents of Bagana Apostle
Peace Peter Simion appreciated Governor Ododo for restoring peace in the community, urging him to rebuild all the infrastructure that were destroyed as a result of the crisis.
“We want to express our deep appreciation to His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, the Executive Governor of Kogi State for his decisive actions and commitment in ensuring the deployment of Nigerian military forces to Omala LGA, which has significantly contributed to restoring peace and stability in the area.
“We are appealing to the Kogi State Government to prioritize the rebuilding of the communities affected by these repeated attacks, specifically Bagana, Agojeju-Odoh, Agbenema, Iyade, and other villages within Omala Local Government”he said.
Another resident, Halimat Abu called on the State Government for the urgent renovation of Abejukolo General Hospital as well as basic healthcare and educational facilities in the affected communities. “The Government should ensure that the returning residents have access to medical care and educational opportunities, particularly as people begin to resettle in their ancestral homes due to improved security” she added.
It was learnt that Bagana is an agrarian Community sharing boundaries with Nasarawa and Benue State.
The crisis between Agatu and Fulani herdsmen from Benue State over the years had led to the displacement of thousands of people in Bagana and destruction of properties worth billions of naira.
No doubt the people of Bagana community are gradually returning back to their ancestral homes but their fear still remains if their safety will be guaranteed by the government after the crisis which has lasted for over 13 years.
