Kogi Polls: Gov. Yahaya Bello appoints 128 traditional rulers [PHOTOS]

The Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello, on Tuesday conferred staffs of offices on 128 traditional rulers in the state.

The development came a few weeks to his bid to get re-elected for a second term.

The event occurred at the Glass House, Lokoja.

About 314 traditional rulers have had their seats upgraded with 128 of them being presented with the staffs of offices by the governor at the event.

At the event, Bello emphasised the important roles which the traditional institution plays in the society, affirming that his government has keyed into this understanding in the interest of the people.

Meanwhile, some indigenes of the state have said the move was to canvass the support of the traditional rulers ahead of his reelection.

Ajenomo Kareem, a member of Kogi Youths Forum, said “ we all understood the trick you have embarked upon and this will not work. Why were these people not recognized before? Why is this coming at eleventh hour? This is a ploy that will fail”.

However, Bello has reiterated the need for the royal fathers to protect the interest of all indigenes and residents in their domains irrespective of their ethnic, political or religious dispositions.

The governor at the event expressed his appreciation to them for their supportive roles towards his administration.

On the forthcoming gubernatorial election in the state, Bello promised a hitch-free exercise. He advised all political key players to maintain decorum in the interest of peace.

Earlier, the Special Adviser to the governor on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Abubakar Ohere, said the ‘over politicisation’ of the affairs of the traditional rulers accounted for the large number of those that have not been upgraded.

He praised Bello for creating the opportunity to recognise those presented with staffs of office.

Speaking after receiving his staff of office, the Oba of Yoruba Community in Lokoja, Alhajilo Audu-Oke, expressed gratitude to the governor for finding it necessary to present it to him.

“The Yoruba Community is extremely grateful. This is what we have been yearning for for a long time. This occasion is one that marks a new closer working relationship between our people in all parts of Lokoja and the government of His Excellency, Yahaya Bello,” he said.