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Members of the National Assembly from Kogi State, on Tuesday, paid a courtesy visit to His Excellency, Governor Yahaya Bello, CON, to congratulate him on the peaceful and credible conduct of the November 11 Governorship election.

The lawmakers, comprising senators and members of the House of Representatives, seized the opportunity to congratulate the Governor on what they described as the resounding victory of the All Progressives Congress and the emergence of Usman Ododo as Governor-elect of Kogi State.

According to them, the November election was adjudged peaceful, credible, free and fair by local and international observers.

Speaking on behalf of the lawmakers, Senator Jibrin Isah Echocho, representing Kogi East Senatorial District in the National Assembly, commended Governor Bello for his sterling leadership, which paved the way for the resounding victory, while
pledging unalloyed loyalty of the Assembly members to the Governor and Governor-elect.

Senator Sunday Karimi applauded the governor’s ingenuity and called for magnanimity in putting the election’s challenges behind with a view to expanding the APC’s space in Kogi State.

In his remarks, the Deputy Majority Leader of the House of Representatives, Rt Hon Ibrahim Abdullahi Halims, commended Governor Bello’s wisdom and exemplary leadership, assuring the Governor of efforts to unite APC members in his constituency and the entire Kogi East Senatorial District.

In their separate remarks, Hon AbdulRahim Danga, representing Okehi/Adavi Federal Constituency on the platform of the People’s Democratic Party and Arc Salman Idris of the ADC, representing Kabba/Ijumu Federal Constituency, commended Governor Bello’s fairness and democratic approach during the conduct of their elections.

The duo eulogised the governor for what they termed as his large heart, political sagacity and understanding, describing him as a fair player in the field of politics.

They said the governor had everything to truncate their chances of emerging victorious in the election that produced them as witnessed in other states but that, as a democrat, he allowed the electioneering processes to go smoothly without intimidating opponents of his political party.

Governor Bello, who welcomed the lawmakers warmly, commended their contributions to the victory of the November 11 governorship election in Kogi State.

He emphasised the importance of being genuine, truthful, and committed, while urging them to do more in delivering the best to their respective constituencies as they had been doing.

In a New Year message, he expressed gratitude to them for their roles in the election, advising them to work collaboratively for the advancement of the Nigerian legislature, particularly for the benefit of their constituents.

Acknowledging the forthcoming leadership transition on January 27, Governor Bello called on the lawmakers to support the Governor-elect, Usman Ododo, in consolidating and continuing the positive trajectory set by his administration.

Furthermore, Governor Bello advised members to move past election-related conflicts and focus on positive lessons learned, while emphasising the importance of unity and collaboration in ensuring the success of the All Progressives Congress in Kogi State.

In his response, the Governor-elect, Usman Ododo, noted the place of Governor Bello’s leadership style in fostering unity across the state without ethnic or political bias.

He recounted the governor’s dedicated efforts in supporting National Assembly members during party primaries, general elections, and post-election legal challenges and appreciated his selfless commitment to placing individuals in key positions and ensuring a peaceful and secure Kogi State.

ONOGWU Muhammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
January 9, 2024
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Special broadcast by the Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Yahaya Bello, CON.
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https://youtu.be/ZUGZP0PBD6M?si=_xW3no0igc8xCy2W
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Kogi State Governor, His Excellency Yahaya Bello, CON, pays a condolence visit to the family of the late Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, at his residence in the Jericho area of Ibadan, Oyo State on Friday.

Governor Bello, accompanied by the governor-elect of Kogi State, Ahmed Usman Ododo, was received by Mrs. Betty Akeredolu, the bereaved wife of the late governor.

Expressing heartfelt condolences, Governor Bello states that Akeredolu’s earthly sojourn, both in private and public spheres, was profoundly impactful, leaving an indelible mark on humanity until his final breath. He counsels the grieving family to embrace the inevitability of death, urging them to cherish the enduring legacy of the departed.

“We were in Lagos for the NGF’s meeting and on a Christmas Homage to President Bola Tinubu when we received the lamentable news of the passing of our elder brother and senior colleague, His Excellency Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN.

Your husband was not merely a senior governor-colleague but also a statesman whose sagacity and benevolent guidance significantly enriched our leadership, notably within the Governors Forum and the democratic institution in Nigeria.

This monumental loss resonates deeply with us, the people of Ondo State, and the entire nation.

I chose to embark on this early journey to extend my heartfelt sympathies to you and your family in this sorrowful moment. May the heavens welcome the soul of my brother with the same generosity and kindness he bestowed upon humanity throughout the years,” he expresses.

Governor Bello lauds Akeredolu’s towering stature as a luminary in Africa’s legal landscape, acknowledging his unwavering dedication to advancing justice, upholding the rule of law, and fortifying democratic institutions in Nigeria.

In gracious response, Her Excellency Betty Akeredolu extended gratitude to the governor for sparing time to offer condolences. She revealed that her husband, aged 67, succumbed to prostate cancer in Germany on Wednesday, December 27, 2023.
Signed,

ONOGWU Muhammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
December 29, 2023
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Ohinoyi’s Demise: Governor Bello Receives Emir of Kano, HRM Ado Bayero, CFR, On Condolences

Kogi State Governor, His Excellency Yahaya Bello, CON, on Sunday in Lokoja received the Emir of Kano, HRM Aminu Ado Bayero, CFR, as he visited to offer his condolences.

During the visit, Alhaji Ado Bayero expressed his purpose in visiting, which was to extend his sympathies to the Government, the Governor, and the People of Kogi State following the passing of the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, His Royal Majesty, Ado Ibrahim, CFR, who peacefully departed on October 29, 2023.
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Governor Bello expressed his deep appreciation to the Emir and the Emirates Council for their heartfelt condolences and the effort of undertaking a considerable journey to offer their support.

He lauded the late Ohinoyi, HRM Ado Ibrahim, for his influential and exemplary life, saying, “I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to you for deeming it fitting to condole with us and for embarking on such a significant journey from Kano to Kogi State. We truly value this expression of love. The late Ado Ibrahim, the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, Sa’aki, lived an honorable life and left an indelible impact on the lives of his people during his time.”

Governor Bello further discussed his administration’s unwavering dedication to the welfare of traditional rulers in the state.

He assured that this commitment would be upheld by his successor. Governor Bello emphasised the cordial relationship and cooperation between the government and the traditional rulers in Kogi State, with a focus on the greater welfare of the people. Additionally, he noted the harmonious relationships established by the late Ohinoyi with the Kano Emirates and traditional rulers across Nigeria.
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Dr. Ado Bayero conveyed the heartfelt condolences and commiserations of the Kano Emirates to the governor, the government, and the people of Kogi State. He also commended Governor Bello for fostering and maintaining strong relationships with traditional rulers within the state.

Born on February 7, 1929, AbdulRahman Ado Ibrahim was the fourth traditional ruler and Ohinoyi of Ebiraland. With a strong foundation in Islamic knowledge, Dr. Ado Ibrahim was an economist with international education, holding a bachelor’s degree in Economics from the London School of Economics and a master’s degree from Harvard Business School in 1954 and 1959, respectively.

His Royal Majesty (Dr) Ado Ibrahim passed on at the age of 94 on October 29, 2023

ONOGWU Muhammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
November 5, 2023
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Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, CON, remains steadfast in his commitment to advancing and solidifying the remarkable achievements of his New Direction administration. He envisions these accomplishments continuing under the leadership of Hon. Ahmed Usman Ododo, who, upon victory in the forthcoming gubernatorial election and inauguration on January 27, 2024.

The Governor expressed this unwavering stance during a meeting with the leadership and members of the Bunnu District Association at the Government House Banquet Hall in Lokoja on Friday.
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In his address, Governor Bello emphasized the importance of unity among political appointees hailing from Kabba-Bunu, underscoring its pivotal role in driving development and progress within Bunnuland.

He stressed the need to build upon a host of achievements in the region and advocated for a substantial vote for the APC, not only in Kabba-Bunu but across Okunland. Governor Bello highlighted that his administration had laid a robust foundation for socio-economic progress, infrastructure development, and the advancement of human capital. As such, he urged full support for the APC candidate, Hon. Ahmed Usman Ododo, in the November 11 polls.
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The Governor also assured that the Kogi State University in Kabba had been firmly established in alignment with the wishes of the district’s founding fathers. Furthermore, he revealed that funding had been allocated for the expedited execution of various projects at the university.

Governor Bello conveyed his commitment to addressing the region’s ongoing challenges, expressing confidence that the state’s 32-year development plan would play a crucial role in their resolution. He extended gratitude to all individuals from Okunland who contributed to the establishment of KSU, Kabba, singling out Dr. Tunde Ayeni for his substantial contributions.

Pastor Johnson Kolawole, the National President of the Bunu Development Association, expressed gratitude on behalf of his people for the commendable progress realized under Governor Bello’s administration. He added that part of their visit was to offer condolences to the Governor over the passing of His Royal Majesty (Dr) Ado Ibrahim, the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland.
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The association acknowledged strategic appointments within the cabinet, the establishment of KSU, Kabba, the GYB Model Science Secondary School in Okebukun, and numerous other achievements as vital contributions by the Bello-led administration.

Professor Olu Obafemi noted the significant contributions made by Bunu and its people to the state. He emphasized that prior to the advent of the GYB administration, Bunu had been subjected to substantial marginalization.

The group assured Governor Bello of their unwavering dedication to ensuring Hon. Ahmed Usman Ododo’s victory on November 11, 2023.

Muhammed Onogwu
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
November 3, 2023
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The On-going reconstruction of Felele/Agbaja road by Kogi State Road Maintenance Agency (KOGROMA).

This is one out of over 20 townships and intercity roads approved by His Excellency Gov Yahaya Bello for total reconstructions. Attached pictures are Before and During.
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Kogi State Governor, His Excellency Yahaya Bello, CON, attends the Nigeria Police Council Meeting at the State House, Abuja.
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The Nigeria Police Council, which is chaired by the President, is a constitutional body that oversees the organisation and administration of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).
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Also at the meeting, Mr Kayode Egbetokun was confirmed as the 22nd Inspector General of Police.

ONOGWU Muhammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor

October 31, 2023
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Ohinoyi’s Passing: I’ve lost a confidant, father figure, says Governor Bello

Kogi State Governor, His Excellency, Yahaya Bello, CON, said, on Monday, that the passing of His Royal Majesty, Dr. Ado Ibrahim, the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, Sa’aki, was a painful and personal loss, describing him as a father figure and trusted confidant.

The Governor said the departure of the revered Royal Majesty had left a void that could not easily be filled, adding that he had lost a source of genuine wisdom, guidance, and unwavering leadership.
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He spoke while addressing sympathisers at the Palace of the late traditional ruler, in Okene

Governor Bello, who had relocated to his country home in Okene on Sunday upon hearing of the demise of His Royal Majesty, noted that the late Ohinoyi was renowned, not only for his role as a traditional leader, but also as an expert in conflict resolution.

“He was a distinguished scholar in Islamic and cultural affairs, and his contributions were truly exceptional, not only in the progress of Kogi State, but throughout Nigeria.

“I want to thank you all for your condolence messages to Anebira over the passing of our revered royal father, His Royal Majesty (Dr) Ado Ibrahim, the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland. For me, I have lost a father figure and a trusted confidant with the passing of Sa’aki. As we all know, His Royal Majesty Ado Ibrahim was renowned, not only for his role as a traditional leader, but also as an expert in conflict resolution.
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“He was a distinguished scholar in Islamic and cultural affairs, and his contributions have been truly exceptional, not only in the progress of Kogi State but throughout Nigeria,” the Governor stated.

According to Governor Bello, the reign of His Royal Majesty, Dr. Ado Ibrahim, was marked by peace, security, economic prosperity, and development in Ebiraland.

“The late king’s contributions were invaluable in maintaining stability in successive administrations in Kogi State. Late father played a pivotal role in ensuring peace and security in Ebiraland, and Kogi State in general. These are things we cannot easily forget,” he added.

Governor Bello, who visited the residence of the late traditional ruler at the Azad Palace in Okene on Monday, called upon the people of Ebiraland and beyond to offer their prayers for the peaceful repose of the soul of His Royal Majesty, Dr. Ado Ibrahim.

He also extended his condolences to the immediate family of the late Royal Father, encouraging them to find solace in the impactful and fulfilling life he led during his time on earth.
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During his address on behalf of the family, Prince Nazi Ado Ibrahim, the eldest son of the late traditional ruler, expressed that their father led a fulfilled and impactful life. He also called upon everyone to offer their prayers for the peaceful repose of his father’s soul. Prince Nazi Ado Ibrahim commended Governor Yahaya Bello for his fraternal support throughout their father’s life and his valuable contributions during the funeral preparations.
In his vote of thanks, Colonel Aminu Ado Ibrahim encouraged the people of Ebiraland to uphold the legacy of peace, unity, and progress that prevailed during their father’s reign. He also expressed his appreciation to Governor Yahaya Bello for his unwavering support to the family during all times.

Born on February 7, 1929, AbdulRahman Ado Ibrahim was the fourth traditional ruler and Ohinoyi of Ebiraland. With a strong foundation in Islamic knowledge, Dr. Ado Ibrahim was an economist with international education, holding a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the London School of Economics and a Master’s degree from Harvard Business School in 1954 and 1959, respectively.

His Royal Majesty (Dr) Ado Ibrahim passed on at the age of 94 on October 29, 2023.

ONOGWU Muhammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
October 30, 2023
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…Expresses Confidence in Their Ability to Deliver.

Kogi State Governor, His Excellency Yahaya Bello, extends his heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Idowu Owohunwa on his well-deserved promotion to the rank of Assistant Inspector-General of Police.

The governor’s message was conveyed during the official decoration of Mr. Idowu and others with their new ranks by the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, at Dr. Goodluck Jonathan International Peace Conference Hall, Force Headquarters, Abuja, on Thursday.
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CP Idowu Owohunwa, who hails from Kogi State, was commissioned into the Nigeria Police Force as a Cadet Officer (Course 19/1996) on 15th August 1996, after graduating from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.

Governor Yahaya Bello regards Mr. Idowu’s promotion as a meritorious achievement, describing the law enforcement officer as diligent, patriotic, and a model citizen who consistently operates with the highest standards of professional ethics and unwavering patriotism.
“I extend my warm congratulations to my esteemed brother, Mr. Idowu Owohunwa, for his distinguished service to our nation, which has been recognized with this well-earned promotion today. With his training in the USA, UK, Israel, and Italy, as well as holding a Master’s degree in Criminal Justice Studies and Policing from the University of Leeds, United Kingdom, I have no doubt that he will significantly contribute to the reform of the Nigerian Police Force,” the governor expressed.
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Furthermore, Governor Bello also extends his congratulations to Mr. Suleiman Yusuf for his promotion from Commissioner of Police to Assistant Inspector General. He commends Yusuf as a brilliant intelligence officer with a long history of dedication and professionalism.

In his address on behalf of the governors who attended the event, Governor Bello praised the commitment of the Nigerian Police Force and other sister agencies in their relentless efforts to protect the lives and livelihoods of the people.

Distinguished guests at the event included His Excellency Godwin Obaseki of Edo State, His Excellency Babajide Sanwo-olu of Lagos State, His Excellency (Pastor) Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State, and other notable personalities.

ONOGWU Muhammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
October 26, 2023
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Governor Bello congratulates President Tinubu, Vice President Shettima on victory at Supreme Court

…..Says Verdict Reaffirmation of People’s Choice

The Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency, Yahaya Bello, CON, congratulates President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima for their landmark victory at the Supreme Court, culminating in the resolution of all electoral disputes stemming from the 2023 Presidential election.

The Governor emphatically underscores that the Supreme Court’s verdict is a resounding reaffirmation of the people’s choice, which signifies the enduring strength of Nigeria’s democratic institutions and the unwavering refuge the judiciary provides to ordinary citizens.
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He emphasizes the importance of the Supreme Court’s judgment, which upholds the popular will, vividly expressed during the elections conducted on February 25, 2023, reinforcing the fundamental value of credible and transparent electoral processes in our great nation.

While conveying congratulations to the leadership of the All Progressives Congress, Governor Bello is optimistic that the party will also warmly invite all candidates from other political parties who participated in the election to collaborate with the President for the collective good of the nation.

Governor Bello expresses his unwavering confidence that, under President Bola Tinubu’s visionary leadership, Nigeria will continue to flourish and thrive in line with the ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda of the current administration.
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On Thursday, members of the panel of the Supreme Court, led by Justice John Inyang Okoro, unanimously upheld the judgement of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was duly elected as announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and dismissed appeals by Alhaji Atiku Abubakar of the PDP and Peter Gregory Obi of the Labour Party

ONOGWU Muhammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
October 26, 2023
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