*Calls for lasting solution to killings in Kogi
A leading candidate in Dekina/Bassa Federal Constituency, Austin Okai has broken his silence over the civil unrest in Bassa Local Government Area of Kogi.
The social activist and politician during a press briefing at his Abuja residence, was quoted as saying, “Our existence is being threatened and the peaceful society we crave and wrestle so hard to sustain is fading away in our own eyes”.
Quest Times earlier reported that Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello called for calm among the Ebira Mozum and Bassa Komu ethnic groups in the Bassa Local Government Area of the State, following the recent outbreak of crisis in the area.
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In his reaction, Okai called on the aggrieved parties to cease fire and embrace peace.
“The unfortunate and reprehensive killings arising from the communal clash in Bassa Local Government Area must be put to an end and the state government reserve the exclusive secured architecture to make this happen within a day if he truly prioritises the well-being of his subjects.
“As a people united in purpose, if we are not ready to embrace peace and tolerate one another, then we’ll all be vulnerable to threats and danger of the unknown,” he stated.
He continued; “I’m particularly heartbroken by a series of unfortunate but avoidable controversies that had caused unrest in Bassa local government in these few days and I wish to call for an immediate cease-fire by all warring parties and give peace a chance.
“There can never be development without peace and tolerance among one another. The current crisis is needless and I, therefore, urge leaders of the communities involved in this needless controversy to wade in and find a lasting solution to the crisis.
“I wish to remind the state government to quickly go beyond rhetoric and address the issues from its roots, having in mind that the primary duty of government is to protect its citizen, this mustn’t be shortchanged as the inhabitants of Bassa Local Government are in dire need of Yahaya Bello’s Administration.
“In my capacity, I shall do all that is necessary to ensure that peace is restored in Bassa land. We cannot continue to play the ostrich. The leaders in Bassa Local Government Area must come with a firm resolve to end this carnage militating against the progress of the people.
“I sympathise with those who lost their loved ones and properties in this charade and urge you all to maintain calm and avoid every temptation and incitement of any form that may lead to more loss of lives and properties.
“I also want to sincerely urge you not to take the law into your hands. We must as a people learn to build bridges and accommodate people regardless of tribe, religion, and political affiliation to build and sustain a peaceful and prosperous society,” he concluded.