By Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab
The newly promoted First-Class Oba of the Yoruba Community in Kogi State, Oba Bello Audu Oke, popularly known as Owoniboy, has expressed profound appreciation to Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, for approving his elevation to a First-Class traditional ruler.
Governor Ododo approved the promotion last week, a development the monarch described as a landmark recognition of the Yoruba community’s contributions to the growth and development of Kogi State.
Speaking with journalists in Lokoja on Tuesday, Oba Oke said the elevation had brought joy to the Yoruba community, noting that it demonstrated the governor’s commitment to equity, inclusiveness and the preservation of traditional institutions.
He described the honour as a collective achievement for all Yorubas living in Kogi State, adding that the recognition would further strengthen the bond between the community and the state government.
The traditional ruler recalled the longstanding relationship between the Yoruba community and the people of Lokoja, explaining that his late father became a councillor in Lokoja in 1947.
According to him, his late father regularly deputised for the late Maigari of Lokoja, Alhaji Yahaya Maikarfi, whenever the traditional ruler travelled outside Lokoja, a responsibility that reflected the confidence reposed in him and the cordial relationship that existed between the Yoruba community and the Lokoja traditional institution.
Oba Oke thanked members of the Yoruba community across Kogi State for their steadfast support and solidarity, describing the promotion as a victory for the entire community.
He pledged the unwavering support of the Yoruba community for the administration of Governor Ododo, assuring that they would continue to partner with the government in promoting peace, unity and sustainable development across Kogi State.
The monarch also called on residents of the state to remain united and law-abiding, urging them to support government policies and programmes aimed at advancing the socio-economic development of the state.
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