Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello.

Governor Yahaya Bello has advocated the inclusion of the traditional institution in the formulation of government programmes and policies.

Governor Bello stated this during the official presentation of staff of office to appointed, graded and upgraded traditional rulers at the Muhammadu Buhari Civic Center, Lokoja.

Governor Bello said in view of the role of traditional rulers as the custodians of the people’s culture and traditions, they should be given the opportunity to make input on issues affecting the people.

He said the peace being enjoyed in Kogi State was a result of cordial relationship with the traditional institution said crimes and criminality could be effectively checked with their support.

The Governor charged the newly appointed, graded and upgraded Chiefs to continue to maintain peace and unity among the people.

He said thier appointment was based on their impeccable character urging them to cooperate with the present administration towards achieving set goals.

In his remark, the Commissioner of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Barr. Salami Ozigi said the present administration is paying attention to the welfare of traditional rulers despite the lean resources stressing that the appointment, grading and upgrading was aimed at repositioning the institution for better service delivery.

In thier separate goodwill messages, the Attah Igala, His Majesty Matthew Alaji Opaluwa, the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland and the Obaro of Kabba, Oba Solomon Dele Owoniyi all expressed appreciation to Governor Yahaya Bello for the appointment, grading and upgrading of traditional rulers and pledged thier continued support to the present administration.

In his remark, the Olu of Ayegunle Gbedde, Oba Oloruntimehin Ayeni who was graded as third class traditional ruler expressed appreciation to Governor Yahaya Bello for the honor done to him and Ayegunle Gbedde community promising to justify the confidence repose in him.
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While also pledging the support of Ayegunle Gbedde community to the present administration appealed for more people’s oriented projects to be executed in the area especially water, roads and electricity.

One hundred and four traditional rulers were given staff of office, out of which 31 were first class, 30 second class and 43 third class