Ebira People In Support Of Nigerian Army and It’s Mission To Secure Nigeria — Ohinoyi Of Ebira Land To Nigerian Army

Ebira People In Support Of Nigerian Army and It’s Mission To Secure Nigeria — Ohinoyi Of Ebira Land To Nigerian Army

His Royal Majesty, the OHINOYI of Ebira Land, Alhaji Dr Ahmad Tijani Mohammed Anaje, SA’AKI, has said that Ebira people are resolute in support of the Nigerian Army (NA) and its mission to secure Nigeria. He made the declaration while receiving the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 2 Division NA, Major General Obinna Onubogu, on a courtesy visit to him in his Palace at Okene, Kogi State, on 16 May 2024.

The Royal Father, who served meritoriously in the NA and retired as a Senior None Commission Officer (SNCO), in the rank of Warrant Officer (WO), expressed delight over the visit of the GOC 2 Division to Ebira Kingdom. “Your visit is an honour to the entire Ebira people. We are immensely grateful for your leadership and the firm commitment of the NA in safeguarding the peace and security of our dear state; and indeed, the entire nation. The sacrifices made by our gallant soldiers to defend our territorial integrity and ensure the safety of our citizens will not go unrewarded,” he said.

He further appreciated the NA for their synergy and collaborative efforts with other security agencies, including local vigilante groups towards the rescue of some abducted students of Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Okene. “The bravery of the army in conjunction with other sister security agencies is commendable. We, the people of Ebira Kingdom, urge for continued vigilance in order to fastall future occurrences. The importance of solidarity between the military and traditional institutions, is made prominent by fusing together all members of the community in the fight against insecurity”, he added. He also affirmed that his people shall remain together and confident in this regard; adding that it is a sure way of building a more peaceful and prosperous future for all Nigerians.

The GOC, while making his remarks, said he came from Ibadan to see the condition of troops as well as have close observation of the entire Area of Responsibility (AOR) within Kogi State. “It was necessary, that coming into Kogi State, I paid you a courtesy call, first because of your revered position within Kogi State and Nigeria as a whole; and secondly, because, as I start my tenure as GOC 2 Division, I would need your prayers, blessings and guidance to effectively direct the affairs of the Division in line with constitutional mandate and command philosophy of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, NAM.” He also said that the visit was necessary to sustain existing civil military relationship.

General Onubogu, on behalf of the COAS and troops of 2 Division NA, expressed appreciation to the Royal Father for the support which the people of Ebira Land have continued to give the NA. He identified kidnapping, armed robbery, communal clashes, land disputes and other criminal activities as major challenges facing the state; noting that his job as GOC 2 Division, is to provide necessary support to own troops on the ground, and to ensure that Kogi State remains peaceful and safe.

The event, featured several dance and comedy displays. It was a good opportunity to interact with the Royal Father, locals and people of Ebira Kingdom; while fostering a friendly relationship for better operational efficiency.

High points of the event were, symbolic breaking of kolanut and prayers, presentation of souvenirs and group photograph.