By Gloria Ojochogu Amodu
The Speaker of Kogi State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Umar Aliyu Yusuf and the State Commissioner for Works, Engr. Mohamed Ahiovi Yusuf on Wednesday paid a Condolence visit on the Federal University Lokoja Community to Commiserate with them on the death of students in the recent accident that happened along Felele/ Lokoja Highway.
The Visit was also to Explore Alternative Routes to reduce the rate of accident on the road and for the safety of the Staff and Students of the University Community.
It would be recalled that sometime last month, a devastating accident occurred along the Felele Expressway claiming the lives of 5 students.
This recurring tragedy has raised serious concerns for the State Government, prompting swift action.
To this end, the State Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo has directed the Speaker to propose a motion for the creation of alternative routes as a critical step toward preventing further casualties.
Speaking, the speaker of the State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Umar Aliyu Yusuf reaffirmed the State Government determination to expedite the construction of alternative route to prevent further lost of lives along the road.
He revealed that the Governor had issued a directive for immediate action and urged the Vice Chancellor to consider reopening the University to restore academic activities.
In his address, the State Commissioner for Works Engr. Mohammed Ahovi Yusuf conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the Vice Chancellor, the University Community and the bereaved families.
“I deeply sympathize with the university management, students, and the grieving parents over this painful loss. It is truly heartbreaking to witness young lives cut short in such an unfortunate manner. I pray that Almighty Allah grants them eternal rest and gives you the strength to endure this difficult time,” he stated.
He re- emphasized the State Government proactive measures to safeguard lives on the road, saying that the State Government decision to create an alternative route would go along way in reducing accident on the Highway.
“As a Government that prioritizes the welfare of its people, we recognize the urgent need to protect our students. We propose an alternative route that would bypass the Felele Expressway, connecting directly to the university. While this serves as an immediate solution, we are committed to exploring additional long-term safety measures,” Engr. Yusuf assured.
In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University Lokoja, Prof. Olayemi Durotimi Akinwunmi expressed gratitude to the State Government timely interventions.
He equally acknowledged the proactive approach taken since the tragic incident and welcomed the proposed solution.
The Vice Chancellor, affirmed the University’s support for the alternative route initiatives
Other top Government functionaries in attendance were Hon. Omotayo Ishaya, member representing Ijumu State constituency, Hon. Ebaiya Shehu Tijjani, the Member representing Lokoja 1 state Constituency; Hon. Abdullahi Adamu, the Lokoja Local Government Area Chairman,
