The Kogi East Critical Stakeholders (KECS) have expressed worries over Fulani herders infiltrating fisheries and farming areas, increasing food security issues in Kogi State. According to the group, these herders have now taken administrative authority, levying locals and removing them from their traditional farmlands and fishing grounds.
This spread of power has resulted in instability and relocation, particularly in the Omala and Dekina local government areas, causing KECS to call for immediate involvement from the Nigerian government to avoid potential bloodshed and the use of self-help methods by the afflicted population.
At a briefing in Abuja, KECS chairman Sule Iyaji stressed the need of FG’s assistance in addressing the security situation in Kogi. The group raised worry about Governor Usman Ododo’s purported disregard for the interests of Kogi East inhabitants, who constitute a sizable proportion of the state’s population.
KECS accused the governor of marginalization, noting Kogi East’s low representation in key decision-making positions within the state administration.
KECS emphasized the perceived imbalance in governance by pointing out that Governor Ododo had nominated only two commissioners from Kogi East, which they saw as an intentional exclusionary measure. According to the group, a lack of representation prevents Kogi East citizens from effectively impacting policies and choices that affect their areas.
As tensions rise and frustrations continue, KECS emphasizes the significance of taking immediate action to address the underlying causes of insecurity and disenfranchisement in the region
IMAGE: Punch
