Idris Ahmed, Lokoja.
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, in his determination and resolve to fight criminals, either on land or water, has on Friday donated engine propel boats to the six riverine Local Government Areas of the State.
Commissioner for Sold Minerals and Natural Resources, Engineer Bashir Abubakar Gegu, who distributed the the boats on behalf of the governor, said the procurement of the boats became imperative as the criminals continue evolve means of escape after perpetrating crimes.
He disclosed that the boats will in no small measure assist and enable security outfits, especially the state vigilante men to fight perpetrators of crime on the waterways.
Six riverine Local Government Areas of Ajaokuta, Bassa, Ibaji, Idah, Kogi (Kotonkarfe), and Lokoja, benefited from the governor’s gesture.
Hon. Gegu reiterated the commitment of the administration to fight criminals operating on the state water and highways, pointing out that many kidnappers and armed robbers have resorted to using the waterways as escape routes after perpetrating crime, hence the decision to assist security agents in curbing their excesses.
The current administration, he said, would not rest on its oars until criminals are rooted out of the state, stressing that the commitment to providing suitable environment for investments to thrive is strong and alive
According to Commissioner, the speed boats were specially constructed for the purpose intended, adding that the intention is to bequeath a safe, secured, thriving state to the future.
He noted that the socioeconomic benefits of the gesture is also one that the LGAs would enjoy in the long run as it also capable of helping to evacuate victims of water related mishaps, if such unfortunate development occurs.
If well utilised, the Governor recalled that the boats were capable of contributing to the economy of the councils, especially as it concerns rural transportation in the form of conveying goods across Rivers Niger and Benue – from one Community to the other.
He therefore enjoined the communities to take advantage by ensuring adequate care for the boats, stressing that it is the only way he would be encouraged to do more for the state.
Receiving the the boats on behalf of their LGAs, representatives of the councils expressed gratitude to the Governor for the gesture and promised to use them judiciously for the benefit of their people and the glory of Kogi State.
