…Approves Six Other Landmark Bills
In a bid to enhance public safety, ease traffic congestion, and promote sustainable urban development, Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has signed into law a bill restricting the movement of heavy-duty trucks within Lokoja metropolis.
Governor Ododo signed the bill alongside six other critical legislative acts passed by the Kogi State House of Assembly during a brief ceremony held at the Government House in Lokoja. He described the legislation as a bold and long-overdue step to address mounting safety concerns and disorganised traffic caused by unregulated truck movements in the state capital.
“The risks posed by the uncontrolled movement of heavy-duty trucks in Lokoja can no longer be ignored. This law is a decisive response aimed at restoring order, reducing accidents, and safeguarding lives,” Ododo said.
The governor also signed into law the amendment of the Kogi State Oil Producing Area Development Commission Law, which he said would ensure transparent and structured development in the state’s oil-bearing communities.
Among other laws signed were the re-enactment of the Kogi State Emergency Management Agency Law and the establishment of the Kogi State Climate Change Agency. According to the governor, these initiatives will bolster the state’s disaster preparedness and response mechanisms while advancing environmental protection and sustainability.
Additionally, Ododo signed into law the establishment of the Kogi State Bureau of Lands, designed to modernise land administration, reduce bureaucratic delays in land acquisition, and boost investor confidence in the state’s property market.
Highlighting agriculture as a cornerstone of Kogi’s economy, the governor also signed the amended Commodity Exchange and Export Promotion Law. He said the move would empower local farmers, enhance the agricultural value chain, and position the state as a competitive player in both local and international agro markets.
“My administration is committed to laws that bring transformation. These are not just words on paper; they are strategic tools to reshape key sectors and improve the quality of life of our people,” Ododo said.
He added that the newly signed Kogi State Independent Electoral Commission (KOSIEC) Law would provide a stronger legal framework for conducting transparent and credible local government elections — a key step towards deepening democracy at the grassroots.
Governor Ododo warned that enforcement of the laws would be strict and impartial. “No one is above the law. Violators will be held accountable, regardless of their status. We operate a zero-tolerance policy on impunity,” he declared.
He reaffirmed his commitment to responsible governance, noting that the true test of leadership lies in the positive impact on citizens’ lives. “Governance is not about promises, it’s about action. Not about words, but about results.”
Earlier, the Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Aliyu Umar, commended Governor Ododo for his proactive and people-focused leadership. He assured the governor of the Assembly’s continued support and called for the digitisation of the legislative complex to improve administrative efficiency.
Umar praised the signed bills as timely and people-oriented, noting that some of the agencies addressed had operated for decades without legal frameworks. He added that two more bills would soon be transmitted to the governor for assent.
With these new laws, the Ododo administration signals a renewed commitment to reform, development, and good governance across Kogi State.
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