Be Patient, Gov. Ododo Will Address Your Needs — Engr. Bashir Gegu Assures Aguma of Tawari
By Yahaya Idris
The Aguma of Bassa Tawari Chiefdom in Kogi-Koton-Karfe Local Government Area, His Royal Highness, Idris Alhassan Yusuf, on Sunday received the Kogi State Commissioner for Solid Minerals and Natural Resources, Engr. Abubakar Bashir Gegu, alongside a delegation of All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders and supporters who paid him a courtesy visit at his palace.
Speaking during the visit, the second-class monarch appealed to the Kogi State Government to upgrade his stool to a first-class status, noting that such recognition would boost the sense of belonging among the Bassa people in the area.
The traditional ruler also urged the government to construct a road linking his community to Toto Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, stressing that the project would open up the area for investment and accelerate development.
According to him, Tawari and its environs are endowed with abundant solid mineral resources that remain untapped, adding that proper harnessing of these resources could position Kogi Local Government Area to compete favorably with some of the country’s developed cities.
He commended Engr. Bashir Gegu for his inclusive leadership style and dedication to grassroots development, urging him to sustain the momentum.
The 85-year-old monarch, who is also a member of the Arewa Consultative Forum, recalled how Barr. Muhammed Tanko Musa Osuku came to the aid of his people during a past security crisis, when suspected herders allegedly killed over 100 residents.
He noted that Barr. Tanko Osuku, then an administrator, mobilized security personnel to restore peace in the area.
In his response, Engr. Abubakar Bashir Gegu appreciated the royal father for his commitment to the development of his people, noting that such leadership makes government interventions more impactful.
He recalled that the monarch had previously presented his requests to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, who acknowledged them and assured that the chiefdom would be considered whenever traditional stool upgrades are undertaken.
“Be patient. The Kogi State Government under the leadership of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo will ensure that your requests are addressed,” Bashir Gegu assured
The commissioner who was accompanied by the Executive Chairman of Kogi State Civil Service Commission, Barr. Muhammed Tanko Musa Osuku, Executive Chairman of Kogi LG, Hon. Abdulmalik Musa, Special Adviser, Hon. Muhammed Asio and SSAs to Governor, explained that the visit formed part of activities surrounding the reception of Bassa defectors into the APC, adding that it was necessary to first pay homage to the traditional ruler before proceeding with the political event.
