Governor Ododo Intervenes to Restore Peace in Isanlu After Fulani-Indigene Clash
In a swift response to rising tensions in Isanlu, Yagba East Local Government Area of Kogi State, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo convened an emergency security meeting to address grievances between the indigenes of Isanlu and Fulani settlers. The tension escalated following allegations of the killing of a Fulani individual by members of the Isanlu community.
The meeting, held in Lokoja on Sunday, was aimed at fostering dialogue and averting potential reprisal attacks that could destabilize the area.
Immediate Intervention
According to the Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Hon. Kingsley Fanwo, the Governor cut short a trip to Abuja, where he was scheduled to receive an award, to address the situation. The Governor underscored the importance of peace and security and vowed to ensure justice for all parties involved.
Fanwo stated:
“The Governor had a robust meeting with the people of Isanlu and the Fulanis at Government House, Lokoja, where he listened to their grievances and addressed them accordingly. He emphasized that taking laws into one’s hands is unacceptable and assured that perpetrators of such acts will face the full wrath of the law.”
Key Actions Taken
Governor Ododo took decisive measures to de-escalate the crisis, including:
- Suspension of a Traditional Ruler: The Governor ordered the suspension of a traditional ruler in the affected area due to his alleged involvement in the incident.
- Interrogation of Traditional Rulers: He directed security agencies to interrogate traditional leaders to uncover the root causes of the conflict.
- Community Sensitization: The Governor urged the Isanlu leadership to sensitize their people against actions that could threaten security and to report criminal elements to law enforcement.
Commitment to Peace and Security
Governor Ododo commended the Fulani community for their restraint and maturity in avoiding retaliation. He also acknowledged their continued cooperation with state security initiatives, which have contributed to peace across the region.
Fanwo added:
“The Governor promised to protect everyone living in the state but stressed that no criminal, regardless of tribe, will be spared.”
The emergency meeting was attended by community leaders, representatives of the Fulani community, security agencies, and government officials, including the Chairman of Yagba East Local Government Area, Hon. Dare Joshua.
Hon. Joshua expressed gratitude to the Governor for his proactive leadership, which he said prevented a potential security breakdown in the area.
Looking Forward
Governor Ododo’s intervention demonstrates his administration’s commitment to maintaining peace and justice in Kogi State. His decisive actions have set a precedent for addressing conflicts through dialogue, fairness, and the rule of law.
The people of Isanlu and Fulani settlers have been urged to work together towards fostering a harmonious coexistence, ensuring that peace and development prevail in the community.
