Hon. Eunice Achimugu Embarks on Familiarization, Thank You Visit to Traditional Rulers in Kogi East »

The newly appointed Special Adviser to the Governor of Kogi State on War Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, Hon. Chief Eunice Achimugu, undertook a familiarization and thank you visit to three prominent traditional rulers in Kogi East on Tuesday.

It was an atmosphere of excitement as she was received by joyous residents in what marks her first official engagement with the traditional institution since her recent appointment by Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo.

Chief. Achimugu’s tour commenced with a visit to the palace of the The Achadu Okoh Ata Igala and Prime Minister of Igala Kingdom, His Royal Highness Ali Yusuf Atama Ameadaji. In her address, she expressed gratitude for the warm reception and emphasized the critical role traditional leaders play in the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking. She noted that the support of the traditional institutions in the state is vital to the success in the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking, stressing that the youth look up to him, and his influence to significantly steer them away from the path of drug abuse.

Her next stop was the palace of His Royal Highness, Chief Ajofe John Odiche Egwemi, the Ejeh of Ibaji, where she highlighted the importance of community-based approaches in tackling the menace of drug abuse. She appealed to the Ejeh to mobilize community leaders and youth organizations to join hands with the state government in its efforts. “This fight requires a collective effort, and with your leadership, we can make substantial progress,” she noted.

The final visit of the day was to His Royal Highness, Chief Abel Etuh, the Etemahi of Igalamela (Kings Maker). Hon. Achimugu reiterated her commitment to addressing the drug abuse problem through comprehensive strategies involving prevention, education, and rehabilitation. She sought the traditional ruler’s support in disseminating information about the dangers of drug abuse and encouraging community involvement in the government’s initiatives. “We need to raise awareness and provide alternatives to our youth to keep them away from drugs. Your leadership can drive this change,” she affirmed.

In their responses, the traditional rulers lauded the initiative and assured the Special Adviser of their unwavering support.

The Achadu Okoh Ata Igala and Prime Minister of Igala Kingdom, His Royal Highness Ali Yusuf Atama Ameadaji, commended the governor for appointing a dedicated and passionate individual to this crucial role. He expressed the readiness of the traditional council to support the Special Adviser and the government in the noble cause, stressing that youths deserve a drug-free society. “We will do all within our power to ensure this,” he pledged.

The Ejeh of Ibaji, Ajofe John Egwemi, emphasized the need for continuous engagement and collaboration. “Your visit today is a step in the right direction. Together, we can create a safer and healthier environment for our children,” he said. Similarly, the Etemahi, Chief Abel Etuh, assured that the community would actively participate in all initiatives aimed at eradicating drug abuse. He promised to work closely with the Special Adviser to ensure that the message reaches every corner of the community.

Speaking with our correspondent, Hon. Achimugu said her visit buttresses the commitment of Governor Usman Ododo to combating drug abuse and illicit trafficking through grassroots involvement and traditional leadership. She assured that her tour to relevant stakeholders will continue with the aim of forging a formidable front, in the fight to safeguard the future of Kogi State’s youth.