Gov Ododo Govt Will Meet Your Demands, Kogi Solid Minerals Commissioner Tells Aguma of Tawari
By Yahaya Idris
The Kogi State Commissioner for Solid Minerals and Natural Resources, Engr. Abubakar Bashir Gegu, has assured the Aguma of Bassa Tawari Chiefdom, His Royal Highness Idris Alhassan Yusuf, that the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo will address the needs of his people.
Bashir Gegu gave the assurance on Sunday during a courtesy visit to the monarch’s palace in Tawari Ward, Kogi-Koton-Karfe Local Government Area, where he led a delegation of All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders and supporters.
He applauded the monarch’s commitment to the development of his community, noting that such leadership supports effective government intervention.
The Commissioner disclosed that the traditional ruler had earlier presented his requests to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, who had acknowledged them and promised that the chiefdom would be considered in any future upgrade of traditional stools.
“Be patient. The Kogi State Government under Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo will attend to your requests,” Bashir Gegu said.
The commissioner explained that the visit was part of activities marking the reception of Bassa defectors into the APC fold.
He added that it was necessary to first pay homage to the traditional ruler before proceeding with the political event.
Other members of the delegation included the Executive Chairman of the Kogi State Civil Service Commission, Barr. Muhammed Tanko Musa Osuku; the Executive Chairman of Kogi LGA, Hon. Abdulmalik Musa; Special Adviser, Hon. Muhammed Asio; and other aides to the governor.
Earlier, the royal father appealed to the state government to upgrade his stool from second-class to first-class status, noting that such recognition would enhance the dignity and sense of belonging of the Bassa people.
He also called for the construction of a road linking Tawari to Toto Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, stressing that improved access would attract investors and fast-track development in the area.
The monarch further highlighted the abundance of untapped solid mineral resources in his domain, expressing optimism that proper exploration could transform the local economy and position Kogi LGA among the country’s thriving areas.
Commending the commissioner, the traditional ruler praised Bashir Gegu’s inclusive leadership and grassroots engagement, urging him to sustain the approach.
The 85-year-old monarch, a member of the Arewa Consultative Forum, also recalled a past security crisis in which suspected herders allegedly killed over 100 residents.
He noted that Barr. Muhammed Tanko Musa Osuku, former chief administrator of Kogi LGc, intervened at the time, mobilising security personnel to restore peace.
