The Kogi State Government has issued a query to the Ohimege Igu, Konto-Nkarfe, Alhaji Abdulrazaq Kotofor, a traditional ruler, accusing him of being involved in partisan politics during the recently concluded governorship election.
The query, dated November 22, 2023, with reference number MLGCA/CHI/S/P/359/1/36, was signed by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Salami Deedat, and was made public on Sunday.
The query alleges that the royal father deliberately engaged in partisan politics during the gubernatorial election, stating, “It has come to the notice of the state government that you deliberately engaged in a partisan role in the just conducted gubernatorial election in Kogi State.”
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The government expresses serious concern, pointing out that the traditional ruler’s actions endangered the security of the domain, leading to a crisis that resulted in the death of an innocent young lady and injuries to several others.
The letter further emphasizes the contradiction between the traditional ruler’s actions and his expected role as a revered figure in the community.
It notes that the royal father appeared unbothered while the peace and security of the state were being threatened by his involvement in partisan politics.
The traditional ruler is given 48 hours to provide a written explanation regarding his actions, and the government reserves the right to seek oral explanations when a panel is set up to examine the case.
The letter concludes with a stern admonition for the royal father to prioritize the matter.
As of the time of filing this report, it remains unclear whether the Ohimege Igu, Konto-Nkarfe, Alhaji Abdulrazaq Kotofor, has responded to the query.
The situation underscores the delicate balance between traditional leadership roles and political neutrality, sparking discussions about the involvement of traditional rulers in partisan activities and the potential consequences for the peace and security of their domains.
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