In a recent development, the Kogi State Government has officially issued a query to Abdulrazak Isa Koto, the Ohimege Igu Kotonkarfe and chairman of the Lokoja/Koto Traditional Council.
The query pertains to the alleged failure of the traditional ruler to maintain peace during a visit by Social Democratic Party (SDP) candidate, Alhaji Muritala Ajaka, to Koto-Karfe.
The government accuses the traditional ruler of not displaying sufficient concern following clashes between supporters of the two political factions, which resulted in the tragic death of a woman.
The query suggests that the monarch may have taken sides, implicating him in partisan politics.
Critics argue that the government’s move is an attempt to deflect blame for the lackluster performance of the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) party in Koto in the just concluded gubernatorial election that was described by many as the most fraudulent election in the history of Nigeria in favour of APC.
Political observers have condemned the government’s action, viewing it as an undue intrusion into local politics.
Contratrrily, addressing news men in Koto, Mallam Ibrahim Usman defended the traditional ruler, acknowledging that he openly endorsed Usman Ododo due to his alignment with the government.
Usman dismissed the query as a mischievous plot by some individuals seeking to capitalize on the situation to tarnish the reputation of the respected traditional leader.
Usman urged the government to exercise restraint, emphasizing the importance of respecting the traditions and customs of the people of Kotonkarfe.
He criticized the query, advising the government not to act solely based on hearsay from those who claim to have the government’s ear.
However, a resident who chose to remain anonymous accused the governor of attempting to intimidate the traditional ruler, further escalating tensions in the region.
