Gov Ahmed Ododo of Kogi has described the investiture of Prince. Olatunji Olusoji as the Ene-Umola Attah-Igala as a strong symbol of unity, friendship and peaceful coexistence among the diverse ethnic groups in the state.
Ododo made the remark at the investiture ceremony held at the Attah Igala Palace in Idah.
The governor, represented by his deputy, Comrade Joel Salifu, commended the Attah Igala, Dr. Mathew Oguche-Akpa, CFR, and President of the Kogi Council of Chiefs, for promoting inclusiveness through the conferment of the prestigious traditional title on a prominent son of Okun land.
He explained that the title, Ene-Umola Attah-Igala, means “Companion and Friend of the Attah Igala,” symbolises trust, loyalty, partnership and commitment to a common cause.
According to him, the honour bestowed on Prince Olusoji transcends personal recognition and reflects the vision of a united Kogi where mutual respect, service and harmony are valued above ethnic differences.
“The recognition of a distinguished son of Kogi West by the revered Igala traditional institution sends a strong message that friendship and peaceful coexistence among all ethnic groups in the state are achievable and sustainable,” he said.
Ododo noted that the Igala, Ebira, Okun, Bassa, Nupe, Kakanda, Gwari, Ogori and other ethnic nationalities in the state belong to one family and should continue to strengthen the bonds that unite them.
He congratulated Prince Olusoji on the honour, describing him as a humble and development-oriented individual who has contributed significantly to the growth and progress of the State.
The governor urged the awardee to use the title as a platform to further promote peace, unity and development across the state, particularly in the Igala Kingdom.
Ododo also appreciated President Bola Tinubu, GCFR, for supporting efforts to strengthen security across the country.
He noted that Kogi had recorded remarkable successes in the fight against criminality through collaboration between the federal government and the state administration.
The governor called on residents of the state to embrace the message of friendship and unity embodied in the chieftaincy title, stressing that a stronger and more prosperous Kogi could only be achieved through collective effort and mutual respect.
In his remarks, Prince Olusoji expressed gratitude to the Attah Igala and the entire Igala traditional institution for the honour.
He said his passion for helping people was rooted in his Christian faith and urged Kogites to continue safeguarding the peace and unity enjoyed in the state.
“Kogi belongs to all of us. We must continue to work together to preserve our unity and support initiatives that will advance the development of our state,” he said.
Olusoji pledged to remain a worthy ambassador of the Igala Kingdom, adding that the title would further strengthen his bond with the kingdom and inspire him to do more for the people.
He also noted that while government has primary responsibility for development, individuals and communities must complement government efforts, particularly in the areas of health, education and security.
