By Samson Obande,  Lafia

The Chairman of Doma Local Government Council, Hon. Jonathan Okuba Addra JP, has announced plans to use ₦53 million recently refunded to the council by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, to establish an anti-snakebite treatment centre in Doma.

Addra disclosed this on Tuesday when members of the Doma Journalists Forum led by its Chairman, Comr. God’spower Ede, paid him a solidarity visit in his office.

Describing the media as a critical partner in development, the Chairman commended practicing journalists in Nasarawa State for their role in promoting peace, unity and development through responsible reportage.

“The media is vital in informing and educating the public on government programmes and policies. I also commend journalists especially of the Doma extraction for helping to counter misinformation. I urge you to sustain responsible reporting that promotes peace, unity and public trust,”_ Addra said.

He promised to uphold transparency and advance the course of development in Doma and its environs, and assured the Forum of his administration’s continued cooperation and support for initiatives that advance the welfare of the people.

Earlier, the Chairman of Doma Journalists Forum, Comrade God’spower Ede, said the visit was to appreciate Addra’s efforts toward promoting unity and peaceful coexistence in the local government.

Ede noted that the forum comprises practicing journalists who are bona fide sons and daughters of Doma, working within and outside the state.

He described the council chairman’s leadership as inclusive, adding that his commitment to bringing the people together had earned him the toga of “Mr Unity.”

As part of the visit, the Forum presented an Award of Excellence to Hon. Jonathan Okuba Addra in recognition of his performance in piloting the affairs of the council, and pledged its continued support for initiatives aimed at promoting peace, unity and sustainable development in Doma.

Doma Local Government, like many communities in Nasarawa South, records a high number of snakebite cases yearly, especially during the farming season. Victims often travel long distances to access treatment, with many fatalities recorded due to delay. 

The ₦53 million refunded by the EFCC is part of ongoing efforts by anti-graft agencies to recover and return misappropriated public funds to local governments. The Council said the proposed anti-snakebite centre will provide affordable and timely treatment, reduce deaths, and ease the burden on residents.