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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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Kogi State Governor, His Excellency Yahaya Bello, CON, received Rear Admiral OM Olotu, the Commandant of the National Defence College, at his residence in Abuja on Tuesday.

Rear Admiral Olotu, an esteemed Underwater Warfare Specialist in the Nigerian Navy and a distinguished member of the 39 Regular Course of the Nigeria Defence Academy, was warmly welcomed by Governor Bello.
During the meeting, Governor Bello extended his heartfelt congratulations to Rear Admiral Olotu on his well-deserved appointment as the Commandant of the Nigerian Defense College.
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The Governor highlighted Rear Admiral Olotu’s reputation as a diligent and committed Naval Officer who has displayed excellence throughout his career so far.
Governor Bello expressed his unwavering confidence that Rear Admiral Olotu would bring transformative reforms and elevate the standards of the National Defense College during his tenure.

In his response, Rear Admiral Olotu commended the Governor for his dedicated efforts in enhancing security and achieving other milestones in his administration. He assured the Governor that, with the support and cooperation of all stakeholders in the service, he would meet and exceed expectations during his leadership.
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He also discussed current efforts of the college towards ensuring a hitch free election in Kogi State and other 2 states on 11 November. To this end, he informed the governor that the College was organising a one day stakeholders roundtable that would discuss all issues surrounding the elections in order to identify and address challenges while also ensuring that the general public was well informed.

It’s noteworthy that Rear Admiral Olotu has previously served as the Commander of the Maritime Guard Command and the Nigerian Navy Ship LUGARD Lokoja. During his tenure, he worked collaboratively with the Kogi State government to combat insecurity effectively.

Rear Admiral OM Olotu assumed office as the 20th Commandant of the National Defence College, Nigeria, on July 6, 2023.

ONOGWU Muhammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
October 24, 2023
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The people of Kogi East Senatorial District, who turned out in significant numbers in Anyigba on Saturday to demonstrate their unwavering support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Usman Ododo, have vowed to play a pivotal role in fostering unity and delivering an overwhelming victory for the APC in the forthcoming November 11 governorship election.
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The Igala indigenes, including prominent stakeholders of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), who publicly defected to the ruling APC at the Kogi East Senatorial District Rally, were joined by other illustrious Igala sons and daughters.

This impressive crowd witnessed on Saturday was historic, marking a significant moment in the history of electioneering in Kogi East.

They pledged to offer their wholehearted support to the APC during the election, ensuring the continuation of the remarkable and non-tribalistic leadership style of Governor Yahaya Bello, which has promoted unity and genuine development across the state. They emphasized the absence of any ethnic agenda among patriotic citizens and focused on promoting the well-being of all.
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Speaking at the event, the Deputy Director-General of the Kogi APC Governorship Campaign Council, Rt. Hon. Momoh Rabiu Alfa, expressed his profound faith in the determination of the people of Kogi East. He underscored their commitment to conducting extensive campaigns to secure an emphatic victory for Ododo Ahmed Usman on November 11. He also highlighted the strength and unity of the party’s structure in the region.

“The individuals gathered here today are devoted members of our party, tasked with carrying our message to every corner, rallying support, and actively working to ensure victory for our party’s candidate on November 11. It’s essential to remember our past: under the APC, you voted overwhelmingly for Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, and he has risen to become our President. You elected Senator Jibrin Isah Echocho, and secured the election of three Federal House of Representatives members and ten out of eleven House of Assembly members.
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Would we now abandon the house we’ve built for another occupant? Our party’s structure in the East is robust, and we stand united behind the ‘One Kogi’ agenda, aiming to build upon the existing peace, infrastructure, and human capital development in our great state,” he declared.

In his remarks, the Director-General of the Kogi APC Governorship Campaign Council and Minister of Steel Development, Shaibu Abubakar Audu, made it clear that the only agenda for the APC is the Kogi Agenda. He emphasized that Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo has a comprehensive vision for the development of the entire state. Alhaji Ododo intends to build upon and consolidate the laudable legacies of Governor Yahaya Bello.

“The only agenda for the APC is the Kogi Agenda. The Party has the interest of the whole state. Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo has a vision for the development of the entire state. He will build and consolidate on the legacies of Gov Yahaya Bello. We’re proud to say that Kogi is now the most secure state in North Central Nigeria.

The APC will provide numerous job opportunities for our vibrant youths through an agricultural revolution. The APC is working to expand its capacity to produce a variety of agricultural products, particularly in Kogi East. I urge you to support the APC and Alhaji Ododo.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who appointed me as Minister of Steel Development, is deeply interested in the vision and success of Kogi State through the development of Ajaokuta Steel. This endeavor will provide substantial job opportunities for our state’s youth.
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The President has emphasized that we must not hand over the State to a government of hustlers or to an opposition government.

The President is concerned about the State and has expressed that we cannot afford to hand over a strategic State to the opposition,” he stated.

Abdullahi Bello, the Chairman of APC in Kogi State, expressed his satisfaction with the massive turnout and the enthusiasm displayed by the people of Kogi East. He encouraged them to maintain their momentum to ensure a landslide victory in the governorship election.

Additionally, Senator Jibrin Echocho, the lawmaker representing Kogi East in the National Assembly, called on those from Kogi East who have not yet joined the APC to embrace the party. He emphasized that elections are won based on party structures.

“Let me appeal to our people to be passionate about the APC. Our candidate is highly marketable. Elections are won based on party structures. The people of Kogi East voted for the APC in the general election, and we cannot afford to do otherwise in the forthcoming election. Governor Bello has laid a solid foundation in infrastructure and human capital development across the state.

His accomplishments have played a significant role in the election. Let’s all join hands to ensure a collective victory for the APC,” Echocho said.
Deputy Governor of Kogi State, Edward Onoja, advised the people of Kogi East to vote based on the principles of continuity, cautioning against sentiments. He reminded them that elections are about political parties, not about tribe, religion, or region.

Governor Yahaya Bello, in his speech, emphasized the importance of setting aside ethnic considerations and focusing on unity and development, rather than ethnic politics, which he referred to as a selfish interest. He asserted that the Igala agenda is rooted in job creation, development, and prosperity.

The Governor praised the achievements of his administration, particularly in terms of promoting fairness, equity, and justice, replacing mediocrity and ethnicity.

“We’ve been able to unite the state, overcoming the divisions along ethnic and other fault lines that existed before my tenure. Today, issues of ethnicity have been resolved. Fairness, equity, and justice have replaced mediocrity and ethnicity.

We’ve empowered youths and women throughout the state, completing numerous projects, distributing infrastructure and empowerment programs across the state. We’ve achieved so much, and we cannot afford to return to our dark days,” the Governor said.
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In his address to the remarkable crowd, Ododo, the APC Governorship Candidate, emphasized that his aspirations are grounded in the people, progress, and unity of the state.

“Let me appeal to the people of Kogi East. Let’s build a united and stronger Kogi State of which we can all be proud. Let this election be about our people, development, unity, and prosperity. I am committed to serving as a leader without barriers.

ONOGWU Muhammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
October 21, 2023
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The Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, says his administration has released the sum of N2billion for the take off and Matriculation of the first set of students to be admitted at the Kogi State University Kabba.

Gov. Yahaya Bello made the disclosure at the 6th and 7th convocation of the Federal University Lokoja, says because of the veritable place of education, his administration has consistently allocated 30% budgetary allocation to the funding of education sector in the past seven years.

Gov. Bello assured that education will continue to occupy the front burner and enjoy the priority of his administration in view of the importance it attaches to the sector.

The Governor who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Folashade Ayoade Arike, said his administration has established two Universities in the second term of it administration.

He mentioned that the Confluence University Osara and the newly established Kogi State University Kabba, are waxing stronger by the day, assured that the Universities would complement the level of quality education the Federal University Lokoja is offering to indigenes of the State.

As a way of repositioning the Kogi State University Kabba to hit the ground running and attain a world class University, his administration he disclosed released the sum of N2billion for it to take off after approval by the National University Commission, said in the next few weeks, the first set of students would be matriculated by the University.

He expressed optimism that the State University would serve as relieve to the Federal University Lokoja in terms of admission of indigenes of the State who are seeking admission into higher institutions.

Similarly, Gov. Bello disclosed that his administration has made education free at all primary and secondary schools, including the payment of WAEC, NECO and JAMB for the Students, this he explained underscores the importance it places to the education of the leaders of tomorrow.
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