Gov. Yahaya Bello of Kogi, has congratulated the Attah-designate of Igala, Mathew Ogwuche Akpa II, on his ascension to the throne, saying it is the will of God.
Bello made this known when he officially received the royal father at the Government House, Lokoja, for the first time on Tuesday.
He described it as blessing and great honor to witness the ascension of a first-class paramount ruler in the state.
He said his administration does not interfere in the selection or upgrading of traditional rulers but ensured fairness, equity and justice prevailed, the reason his administration earned the cooperation and understanding of traditional rulers.
“We had a very wonderful relationship with the late Attah, Dr Micheal Ameh Oboni.
“In the quest for who would succeed him, we allowed the will of the people to prevail conscious that the will of the people is the will of God,” Bello said.
The governor said his position is pivotal in the successes recorded in the state in the areas of security, unity and good governance.
He prayed God to bequeath a system where his successors would be guided by the traditional institution on matters of dignity.
Bello directed the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs to fix a suitable date for the official coronation ceremony and presentation of Staff of Office to the new Attah.
Mathew Ogwuche Akpa II, the Attah-designate of Igala, in his response, thanked the governor for his support and fairness throughout the selection process.
He pledged his commitment and cooperation to the peace and unity of Igala Kingdom and the state throughout his reign.
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr Salami Deedat, lauded the hitch-free selection process which threw up Ogwuche Akpa II, adding that the process was free of government interference.
He expressed the hope that the royal father would collaborate with government towards achieving set goals. (NAN)