The Ofu Local Government Traditional Council, alongside many indigenes, hosted a grand reception in honour of the Kogi State Deputy Governor, Joel Salifu.
The event, held in Ejule on Saturday, was marked by the defection of over 600 members of the Peoples Democratic Party, Social Democratic Party and other political parties to the ruling All Progressives Congress in solidarity with the deputy governor.
Declaring the occasion open, the Eje Ofu and Chairman of the Ofu Local Government Traditional Council, HRH Akwu Obaje, said the gathering was organised to celebrate “our own son” and acknowledge his loyalty, humility and representation of the Ofu people in government.
He commended the deputy governor for remaining calm, respectful and accessible despite the demands of public office.
The monarch also thanked Governor Ahmed Ododo for the confidence reposed in Salifu and for respecting traditional institutions across the state.
The royal father pledged the council’s continued support for the administration in maintaining peace, unity and development.
He urged youths to embrace education, hard work and peaceful coexistence.
Obaje appealed for more government intervention in roads, healthcare, security, youth empowerment and rural development for the predominantly farming and trading community.
In his response, the deputy governor described the reception as a deeply honouring moment.
“Today is a very special day for me. Standing here before my people, I feel deeply honoured, happy and grateful for this reception organised by the Ofu Traditional Council and sons and daughters of the local government, both at home and in the diaspora,” he said.
He thanked the traditional rulers, political office holders, women, youths and others who made the event possible, noting that the honour meant much because it came from his own people.
Salifu expressed loyalty to his principal, Ododo, and gratitude to former governor Yahaya Bello for the opportunity to serve.
