A leading sociocultural group in the South East known as Ikenga Foundation, has described Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State as a peacemaker and bridge builder for his decisive leadership in times of national crisis.

The Ikenga Foundation which recognises and honours individuals whose activities, particularly in positions of leadership, have impacted positively on Ndigbo anywhere in the nation extended its appreciation to Governor Bello, over the recent roles he played in resolving the serious crisis posed by a North-South food blockade.

The groups comment was contained in a Statement by its Director-General, Dr. Ben Ugwu.

The Group lauded the efforts of the Governor for leading the Amalgamated Union of food Stuffs and Cattle Dealers in AUFON, Nigeria and stakeholders to the Federal Government, where positive negotiation was reached that paved way for lasting peace among Nigerians.

It noted that governor Bello secured an all encompassing victory for both the dealers on Food Stuff from the North, the farmers of the products and trailer drivers who were all feeling the pains and the people of Southern Nigeria where the price of food stuffs had increased astronomically, thereby increasing hardship on the people.

The Foundation commended Governor Bello for such gigantic strides towards ensuring peace and stability between the North and the South noting that in spite of not having any major interest on both sides the governor was able to bring peace to Nigeria.

He affirmed that the Governor’s actions in office depicted that the Youths could face challenges of governance and fast-track developments when given the opportunity.

The group applauded the Governor, for defusing the tension rising around the violence which recently broke in some Southern states against Northerners, has saved plenty of Igbo lives and business from feared reprisal attacks and counter-attacks in the North and elsewhere.

It added that Ndigbo usually bore the brunt of such violence, further commended the Governor for clearly demonstrating that it was indeed time for youths to take up leadership of the nation, and promised that the organisation will soon roll out modalities to properly honour him.

This is contained in a statement made available by
Chief Press Secretary to the Kogi State Governor, Onogu Muhammed.