***Calls for Immediate Safety Reforms

The Senator representing Kogi East in the National Assembly, Jibrin Isah Echocho has sent a message of condolence to the families affected by the recent boat mishap on the River Niger.
The boat incident had claimed the lives of many market women traveling from the state to neighboring Niger State.

In a statement personally signed by the senator, Echocho conveyed profound sympathy, urging the bereaved to find solace in the face of the devastating tragedy.
He offered prayers for the peaceful repose of the deceased and comfort for the grieving families.

The accident, confirmed by the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), occurred along the Dambo-Ebuchi corridor of the River Niger, a major commercial route.
While investigations are ongoing to determine the cause, the tragedy has intensified concerns about waterway transportation safety in the region.

Senator Echocho expressed alarm over the frequency of such incidents, stressing the urgent need for comprehensive safety measures.
“The waterway connecting Kogi and Niger states has become perilous. Authorities must act swiftly to implement stringent safety protocols to prevent further loss of lives,” he urged.

He called on the government to prioritize the safety of those who depend on water transport, advocating for better infrastructure, stricter regulations, and more effective enforcement of safety standards.

Echocho also assured the victims’ families that the Kogi State government, in collaboration with federal agencies, would provide necessary support to those affected.
He emphasized the importance of community and government cooperation in helping the victims heal and rebuild.

The senator’s message comes as Kogi State continues to mourn the loss of lives, with citizens and leaders offering solidarity and support to the affected families.

The Kogi State government has pledged to assist the victims’ families and to work closely with relevant federal bodies to enhance water transport safety, ensuring that such a tragedy does not occur again.

This incident has reignited national calls for urgent reforms in Nigeria’s waterway safety regulations, as communities demand action to prevent future disasters.

The Igala Youth Council (IYC) has strongly condemned the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) for listing the Igala nation as part of the proposed “United States of Biafra.” The IYC’s stance was made clear during an emergency meeting held on December 1, 2024, in response to a viral video in which IPOB outlined its vision for a 40-state Biafran nation.

In a statement, the IYC’s National Publicity Secretary, Michael Achor Joshua, criticized IPOB for failing to consult the Igala people, emphasizing that the Igala nation firmly rejects any inclusion in IPOB’s secessionist agenda. “We were not invited to any discussions, nor do we support IPOB’s ambitions. Our focus is on achieving good governance within the Nigerian state, not being drawn into what we consider madness,” Joshua declared.

The IYC urged all Igala people worldwide to ignore IPOB’s claims and continue with their lawful pursuits. The council stressed that the Igala nation remains committed to the unity and development of Nigeria.

IPOB’s inclusion of the Igala nation has sparked widespread controversy. The group, which advocates for the secession of the Southeast and other regions from Nigeria, has faced criticism for its disruptive tactics, including the imposition of a weekly “sit-at-home” order that has adversely affected the economy and daily life in the Southeast.

The IYC’s statement reflects growing resistance to IPOB’s secessionist agenda, with the council reiterating its commitment to national unity and peace.

Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State, has congratulated Alhassan Yahaya on his election as the President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) at the recently concluded triennial delegates’ conference in Owerri, Imo State.

In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Media, Ismaila Isah, Governor Ododo described Yahaya as a dedicated media professional who has consistently championed the welfare of journalists.
He commended Yahaya’s inclusive campaign and urged him to continue prioritizing the well-being of NUJ members and promoting unity within the union.

“Your leadership is a testament to hard work, dedication, and commitment to the journalism profession. I trust you will continue to uphold the values of integrity and inclusiveness,” Ododo said.

The Governor also lauded the NUJ members for their orderly conduct during the election process, which he said demonstrated their commitment to democratic values.
Governor Ododo further congratulated Alhaji Momoh Jimoh Adeiza, General Manager of Radio Nigeria Prime FM, Lokoja, on his election as NUJ Vice President for Zone D, which includes Kogi, Benue, Kwara, Nasarawa, Niger, Plateau States, and the Federal Capital Territory.

He praised Adeiza for his contributions to journalism and his role in bringing honor to Kogi State, describing him as an exemplary journalist with a distinguished career.

The Governor wished the newly elected NUJ leadership a successful tenure, expressing confidence that they would continue to advance the cause of journalism in Nigeria.