Following the recent crisis that claimed lives and disrupted peace in three communities, Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Ododo, on Tuesday visited Kupa community to sympathise with the people and the Maiyaki of Kupa, His Royal Highness, Pharmacist Kabir Isa Dauda III.

The crisis, which occurred a few weeks ago, reportedly started as a disagreement between two individuals before escalating into violence that affected Kupa and neighbouring communities, including Guchidan, Mikugi and Abugi.

Governor Ododo, who was accompanied by government officials, security chiefs and political stakeholders, described the incident as unfortunate and painful, while praying for the repose of those who lost their lives.

He called on residents to remain united and committed to peaceful coexistence, stressing that the government would continue to work with traditional institutions and security agencies to ensure lasting peace in the area.

The Governor apologised for the delay in visiting the community, explaining that his late arrival should not be interpreted as a lack of concern for the people.

He said he came personally to assess the situation and reassure the people that Kupa remained an important part of Kogi State.

During the visit, Governor Ododo inspected the security situation, healthcare and educational facilities, agricultural activities and the condition of roads linking the community with other parts of the state.

He expressed concern over the deplorable condition of the roads, noting that the difficult journey from Lokoja to Kupa highlighted the urgency of the situation.

According to him, roads linking Jamata through Kakanda, Abugi and Egon are already receiving government attention, while the road leading directly to Kupa would also be prioritised.

“I will personally pursue this intervention. My desire is that my next visit to Kupa will take significantly less time,” the Governor said.

Governor Ododo also commended the traditional leadership of Kupa for maintaining peace and unity among the different ethnic groups in the area.

He urged residents to continue supporting the traditional institution and to live together peacefully, emphasising that Kupa belongs to everyone.

Earlier, the Maiyaki of Kupa, HRH Pharmacist Kabir Isa Dauda III, welcomed the Governor and described his visit as a demonstration of the state government’s concern for the community.

The traditional ruler appealed for improved security, better healthcare services, agricultural support, additional classrooms and teachers, as well as the urgent rehabilitation of the Jamata–Kakanda–Abugi–Egon road.

He explained that the road was particularly important because Kupa is predominantly an agrarian community, adding that its rehabilitation would facilitate the movement of farmers and their produce to markets, reduce transportation costs and stimulate economic activities.

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The Maiyaki also commended the Kogi State House of Assembly for its resolution on the crisis and appreciated the Speaker and members for standing with the community during the difficult period.

He expressed optimism that continued government intervention would enable Kupa to fully recover and return to normal agricultural, educational and economic activities.

In his remarks, the Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Aliyu Umar Yusuf, commended Governor Ododo for identifying with the people of Kupa at a challenging period.

The Speaker also praised the Governor’s commitment to addressing the developmental needs of the community, particularly the road project.

He reiterated the need for urgent construction and rehabilitation of the road leading to Kupa, describing it as the major route through which the agrarian community transports its farm produce to markets.