Dangote/Kogi Government Saga: Host Traditional Rulers Break Silence, Call For Peaceful And Roundtable Negotiation

Press Release

DANGOTE/KOGI GOVERNMENT SAGA: HOST TRADITIONAL RULERS REACT, CALL FOR PEACE AND ROUNDTABLE NEGOTIATION

1. Traditional Rulers hosting the largest Cement Company in Africa, Obajana Cement Plc in Kogi State have reacted to the ownership claims between Kogi State Government and the Management of the Cement Company.

2. While we hail the decision of the Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello in taking the bold step, we also express our support in the decision of government as we have no power to speak on the matter as our voices may not count because of the powers that be.

3. The decision of Government to also look into the disposition of the Company to the implementation of Community Development Agreement and Memorandum of understanding is commendable and a step in the right direction which shows that the Governor is the voice of the voiceless and ever ready to perform the oath he took on assumption of office.

4. To set the record straight, we know that the Government has good intention for the State and its citizenry, hence the probe. This is not a misplacement of priority but can only come from a responsive and responsible government. We advise the Dangote Group to provide the necessary information as requested by Government to sustain the existing peaceful environment of doing business.

5. As Royal Fathers, we are ready to support any move that *would* ensure amicable resolution of the matter as we want peace for our communities and her environs. We therefore request both parties to employ roundtable solution.

6. Consequently, we want to appreciate God for helping us to *contain the crisis which/ that* would have led to loss of lives and property.

7. We believe that dialogue is the best tool for crisis management and we *plead that both parties* embrace dialogue and reach a logical conclusion as soon as possible. *Meanwhile, we sincere* urge relevant stakeholders especially the federal government under the leadership of His Excellency President Mohammed Bihari to wade in for a lasting solution.

8. The youths are hereby warned to desist from using the Dangote/Kogi Government Saga to cause disturbance of public peace.

9. Meanwhile, we sincerely use this medium to sympathize with the Speaker and members of the State House of Assembly over the unfortunate fire incident that razed the Chamber and Gallery.

10. Lastly, we pray that the issue will be resolved amicably for the benefit of the people, government, Nigeria and Dangote Group. We also pray that Almighty God grants our beloved Governor wisdom to resolve the matter as soon as possible.

11. To the Deputy Governor, Chief Edward Onoja, Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Folashade Ayoade, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pharm.Jamiu Asuku and other members of the State Executive Council, we salute you for standing by His Excellency.

12. We salute the duggedness of our amiable governor in fighting insecurity in the State.

Signed

HRH. Oba Idowu Isenibi (JP)

Bajana of Obajana

HRH. Oba Fredrick D. Balogun (J P)

Olu of Apata