Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo convened an emergency security meeting on Monday to address rising tensions between the indigenes of Isanlu and Fulani settlers following allegations that a Fulani individual was killed by members of the Isanlu community.
The meeting, held at the Government House in Lokoja, aimed to prevent potential reprisal attacks and restore calm in the Yagba East Local Government Area. According to State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Hon. Kingsley Fanwo, the meeting was productive, with both sides agreeing to embrace peace.
Governor Ododo reportedly cut short a trip to Abuja, where he was scheduled to receive an award, to address the escalating security concerns. During the meeting, he listened to grievances from both parties and outlined measures to prevent further violence.
“It is unacceptable for anyone to take the law into their hands by killing another human being. Such actions will not be tolerated, and perpetrators will face the full wrath of the law,” the governor stated.
He also directed the suspension of a traditional ruler allegedly involved in the incident and called for the interrogation of others to uncover the roots of the conflict. Furthermore, he urged Isanlu leaders to caution their people against harboring criminal elements and to cooperate with law enforcement agencies to identify and address security threats.
The governor praised the Fulani community for resisting the urge to retaliate, commending their commitment to peace and security. “Your maturity and understanding have prevented what could have been a major crisis,” he said, adding that his administration remains dedicated to protecting all residents of the state, irrespective of their ethnicity or background.
Governor Ododo also reaffirmed his administration’s zero tolerance for criminal activity, pledging to pursue offenders without regard for tribal affiliations.
The meeting was attended by top government officials, security agencies, community leaders, and representatives from the Fulani community. The Chairman of Yagba East Local Government Area, Hon. Dare Joshua, thanked the governor for his swift intervention, noting that his actions averted a potential security breakdown.
As part of the resolution, both parties agreed to cooperate with ongoing investigations and work toward sustaining peace in the region.
