By Dada Ahmed, Lokoja.
Members in session.
The Kogi Central Think-Tank Forum (KCTTF) has rejected what it described as derogatory remarks against its status and members, stressing that the Forum is made up of reputable personalities who have made immense contributions to the social, economic, and political development of Kogi State.
In a statement issued after its monthly meeting on Wednesday in Lokoja, chaired by Dr. Haroun Opotu Yussuff,the Forum said it would not tolerate attempts to discredit its members or undermine their legacies of service.
It noted that its membership comprises retired but distinguished individuals, including former Secretaries to the Government of Kogi State, permanent secretaries, directors, seasoned media practitioners, medical professionals, and other respected figures in the private sector whose contributions are widely acknowledged.
Reaffirming its commitment to the progress and stability of the state, the Forum pledged to continue promoting ideas, dialogue, and initiatives capable of advancing Kogi’s development as part of its responsibility to the society and called for mutual respect in public discourse.
The Forum reminded members of the public of the crucial role think-tank bodies play in governance and societal advancement.
Such groups, it explained, provide platforms for experts, professionals, and stakeholders to generate ideas, conduct research, analyze policies, and propose solutions to pressing socio-economic and political challenges, pointing out that KCFFT is in alliance with such functions.
It added that think-tank forums such as KCTTF engage in evidence-based research and policy analysis, generating practical recommendations to guide governments, organizations, and communities.
Beyond that, they play vital roles in advocacy and public engagement by shaping opinions, presenting informed perspectives, and encouraging healthy debates,they explained.
According to the Forum, its relevance goes beyond existence in name; its members possess the expertise and experience to foster human development and enlighten stakeholders, decision-makers, and the public on complex issues.
The KCTTF further stated that, as a non-partisan advisory body, it members have their relevance to policymakers and institutions by serving as an innovation hub where new ideas, reforms, and development strategies are nurtured.
It reiterated that these roles highlight its importance in sustaining the growth and stability of Kogi State.
Our correspondent reports that the Forum’s reaction followed a comment made by one M. T. Zubairu in a statement,he posted on Okengwe-Ehi Heritage Forum in which he cast doubt on the relevance of the KCTTF.
In his words:
“Yeah! Yeah!! Yeah!!!
Kogi Central Think-Tank Forum?? Do we even have anything like a think-tank forum at all? I personally don’t believe it exists. And if at all it does, it is only in name, not in action or results. Maybe they liked the name because it sounds good and decided to adopt it. I have not seen anything about the ‘tank’ or the ‘thinking’ for Kogi Central.”
Some members of the Forum,who also reacted described Zubeiru’s remarks as an act of ignorance about what KCTTF and its contemporaries stand for in the society and urged him to get educated about the essence of such a group.
One of the members of the forum,in his separate reaction, remarked:” This Zubairu of a man has clearly put the cart before the horse. His earlier baseless condemnation of the forum leaves much to be desired.
“We must always be mindful of how we express our thoughts on issues we believe require improvement. Instead of offering constructive input, he began by castigating the name of the forum with harsh words.
“Ironically, he admitted that he has no knowledge of its members—yet still felt entitled to pass judgment on the activities of the group.
“Civility and respect should guide our communication, for the way we speak defines our character. This is a vital lesson we should all embrace in the process of exchanging ideas and expressing our feelings on matters of human development or social engagement.”
