On Wednesday, suspected terrorists attacked and fatally wounded Chief Ojo Olayinka, the traditional ruler of Elepe in the Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State.The tragic incident occurred on his farm, with his lifeless body discovered by his community members after he failed to return home.
The Kogi State government, through Commissioner Kingsley Femi Fanwo, has condemned the barbaric act and expressed a commitment to ensuring justice for the slain monarch.
The statement reads: “In as much as this may not bring back our beloved citizen who was murdered, it will reinforce the trust of our citizens in the security architecture of the state. We cannot afford to relapse into a state of insecurity.
“We urge the people of Ogidi and Ijumu Local Government Area to remain calm and not take the laws into their hands, no matter the level of provocation, as the state apparatus is strong enough to defend and secure the lives of our people and bring antisocial elements to book.
“The people should remain vigilant and volunteer useful intelligence to security agencies and community leaders.
“Our hearts and thoughts are with the immediate family of the deceased, the Ogidi community, the people of Ijumu Local Government Area, and indeed the traditional institution. May the souls of the departed rest in peace.
“The administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo will remain committed to the security of lives and property and will make life unbearable for criminals in the state.”
Chief Ojo Olayinka is the fourth traditional ruler killed by non-state actors in Nigeria within the last two weeks.
