By Elizabeth Atte
The Kogi State Government, in North Central Nigeria, has pledged to prioritise the safety of the Bunu people and rehabilitate the deplorable roads in the district, in line with the promises made by the state Governor, Alhaji Usman Ododo, during his electioneering campaigns.
The commitment was made by the Deputy Governor of the state, Elder Salifu Joel Oyibo, at a reception organised to mark the 100th birthday of the Olubunu of Bunu, His Royal Majesty Oba Joseph Ikusemoro, and his 64th anniversary on the throne.
Speaking at the event, the Deputy Governor assured the people that the current administration would fix the Edumo–Okeoffin–Ayede–Olle–Iluke road, a major route connecting over 20 industrious communities.
“As for the security of this area, you can all attest that the Government of Kogi State has not rested and will never rest until everyone can sleep with both eyes closed,” he said.
He commended the people of Bunu land for their endurance and perseverance, assuring them that their suffering due to poor road conditions would soon become a thing of the past.
The National President of the Bunu Development Association (BDA), Pastor Kolawole Johnson, stated that rehabilitating the Edumo–Okeoffin–Ayede–Olle–Iluke road would significantly improve security in the district.
He noted that the poor state of roads in Bunu land has contributed to the rise in criminal activities.
“Your Excellency, like Oliver Twist, the Bunu people will continue to ask more from your government—particularly in the area of security, for the protection of lives and property in the district. Another paramount request is the reconstruction of the Edumo–Okeoffin–Ayede–Olle–Iluke road.
“It is very disheartening to inform you that the Ihale–Taki road is not motorable during the rainy season. This has deprived residents of the ability to transport their farm produce to the markets. Even ceremonies are often postponed due to the condition of the road. We would be grateful if you could issue an express directive to the Kabba/Bunu Local Government to commence immediate grading of the Aiyegunle Ighun–Aduratedo–Ape–Igori–Aherin–Eshi road, as well as the Ofere–Ihale–Taki road and the **Edumo–Okebukun–Okeoffin bypass road,” he lamented.
According to the State Security Adviser, retired Commander Jerry Omodara, the centenary event served as a platform for unity among the people and an opportunity to draw the government’s attention to the challenges hindering development in the district, which is richly endowed with natural and human resources.
The President of the Olle Development Association, Mr. John Ibisagba, noted that the Olle community, the ancestral home of the monarch, has enjoyed peaceful leadership and consistent guidance from the Olubunu.
“The Olubunu’s hundred years on this earth and sixty-four years on the throne are a testament to God’s grace and a life of discipline, dignity, and service. He is more than a custodian of tradition—he is a pillar of wisdom, a bridge between generations, and a symbol of unity for all of Bunu land,” Ibisagba stated.
Dignitaries from various walks of life attended the celebration, including the Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, who was represented by his Deputy, Elder Joel Salifu Oyibo.
The celebrant, the Olubunu of Bunu land, His Royal Majesty Oba Joseph Ikusemoro, expressed gratitude to God for allowing him to witness his centenary and 64th year on the throne. He also extended heartfelt appreciation to all those who came to celebrate with him.
