Traditional rulers and youth leaders from the five Local Government Areas of Okunland in Kogi West Senatorial District, Kogi State, have pledged to strengthen collaboration with security agencies to tackle insecurity through greater community participation.

The commitment was made at separate meetings held over the weekend in Kabba, the headquarters of Kogi West Senatorial District.

At a meeting of the Okun Area Traditional Council, chaired by the Obaro of Kabba, Oba (Dr.) Solomon Owoniyi, the monarchs reviewed issues affecting peace, security and development across the district.

The royal fathers, including the Elegbe of Egbe, Oba Irukera; the Agbana of Isanlu, Oba Etombi; the Elulu of Mopa, Oba Ibeun; and the Olujumu of Ijumu, Oba Ayeni, agreed to work more closely with security agencies by promoting community-based efforts to combat crime and insecurity.

The monarchs also discussed challenges in their respective domains and resolved to adopt a united approach in addressing common issues affecting the area.

On the dispute involving two traditional rulers in Yagba West Local Government Area, the council said it had intervened and directed that the matter be withdrawn from court. The parties were invited to a meeting aimed at reaching an amicable settlement.

Meanwhile, youth leaders and stakeholders in Kogi West commended President Bola Tinubu and Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo for what they described as improved security efforts in the district.

In a statement issued by the Okun Youth Leaders and Stakeholders Forum, the group also declared its support for Hon. Sam Aro Bemidele as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the Kogi West Senatorial District.

The forum described Aro as the legitimate winner of the APC senatorial primary election and expressed confidence in his ability to provide effective representation and grassroots development.

“The energized and determined youths of Kogi West stand united, ready, willing and eager to mobilize our networks, resources and energy to work closely with Hon. Bemidele,” the statement said.

The youth leaders also praised the Ododo administration’s security initiatives, particularly the operation that reportedly led to the death of a suspected bandit leader, Batijo, in Iluke, Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area.

According to the group, the achievement reflected the state’s investments in security infrastructure, intelligence gathering, improved welfare for security personnel and collaboration with local vigilante groups.

The forum also commended the State Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara, for his commitment to tackling insecurity, while acknowledging former Governor Yahaya Bello for laying the foundation for improved security through strategic investments and community partnerships.

The youth leaders urged APC stakeholders to remain united and support candidates they believe represent the aspirations of the people ahead of the 2027 elections, saying their endorsement of Aro was based on the need for dynamic and effective representation for Kogi West.