RE APPOINTMENT OF MUKADAM ASIWAJU ASIRU IDRIS; A MERITORIOUS RECOGNITION CUM DIVIDEND OF COMPETENCY, CONSISTENCY, LOYALTY AND TECHNOCRACY EXTRAORDINAIRE

Since the inception of the New Direction Government of Kogi (the Confluence state) led by His Excellency, Alh. Yahaya Adoza Bello, the 4th executive governor of the state.

Hon. Mukadam Asiwaju Asiru Idris has not only served as a commissioner, he has contributed consistently to the obvious recorded achievements and development of the Kogi state economy and applaudable increase in the IGR within the last four years in various capacities as
1. He was appointed by His Excellency Alh. Yahaya Bello as *Special Adviser to the Governor on Finance, economy, commerce and investment* dated February 22, 2016. The appointment which afforded him the opportunity to serve as the Acting Honorable commissioner of Finance and Economic Development

2. On The 2nd of June 2016 he was subsequently appointed as a result of  his giant contributions to the implementation of the New Direction blue print by his Excellency Alh. Yahaya Bello as the Honorable commissioner for Finance and Economic Development. A position he held till December 2019 when the Executive Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Alh. Yahaya Adoza Bello dissolved his Executive cabinet, and the Doyen of Kogi economic development Hon. Mukadam Asiwaju Asiru Idris was immediately reappointed as

3. Special Adviser to the Executive Governor on Finance, Budget and Economic planning.

One of the highlights of the Jan. 27th Inauguration ceremony of the 4th Executive Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Alh. Yahaya Adoza Bello and his deputy Chief Edward Onoja at the glass house of the Kogi State government house was the announcement of the reappointment of Hon. Mukadam Asiwaju Asiru Idris as Commissioner designate.

The appointment was indeed the people's appointment and had been disscribed as A MERITORIOUS RECOGNITION CUM DIVIDEND OF COMPETENCY, CONSISTENCY, LOYALTY AND TECHNOCRACY EXTRAORDINAIRE.

Having putting into consideration his technocracy, consistency, wealth of knowledge and experience, obvious robust achievement and commitments to the New Direction Government his is indeed worthy of the appointment.
In the past four years, he has been able to achieve the following having diligently harness the dynamism of the various capacities he has been opportune to serve.
To mention but few of his numerous achievement and innovation are as follows

1. Robust increase in the State IGR with approximately 250% from 2016 to 2019
*2016- 6,496
*2019_15,281 (NGN MILLION)

2. Implementing a central treasury single account (TSA)

3. Tax harmonization bill passed into law

4. Publishing budget implementation performance report online quarterly

5. Biometric capture of all state civil servants was carried out to eliminate payroll fraud

6. Publishing audited annual financial statements within 9 month of every financial year end, 2016_2018 available

7. Establishment of transparency, efficiency and accountability unit and a continuous audit system (internal audit)

8. Ensure that total liabilities do not exceed 250% of the total revenue for the proceeding year

9. Establishment of Economic and Investment team

10. Implementation of special supper politics action committee (Super PAC) on IGR Funding

11. Publication of financial statements

12. Rationalization of Public expenditures

13. Adoption of the FGN fiscal sustainability plan

14. Initiating the establishment SFMIS in the state to take care of all online biometric and financial management issues.
Worthy to acknowledge and appreciate also is his commitments to humanity, Human development and Capacity building through his detribalised numerous empowerment and Human development programs and facilitates.

Hon. Mukadam Asiwaju Asiru Idris practical commitments to the general development of Kogi State, her citizens and government is a justification of him being a doyen of patriotism, politician extraordinaire and divinely forged Humanitarian and emancipator of the down trodden.

As a matter of urgency and popular demand we implore that the state budget be more intensified, and more attention, resources and commitments is focused on Youths development, Educational sector (especially Primary School teachers), entrepreneurial and SMSe sector, sports and industrialization of our dear state Kogi.

The name Mukadam Asiwaju Asiru Idris has  indeed been writen in gold in the heart of many and in the National political sphere, his antecedent and personality is such to be emulated by other political actors and emerging leaders.

We hope this rare privilege of reappointment serves as an opportunity to do more and to better the life of many.
#PLEASE DO MORE
#KOGI WOULD BE GREAT AGAIN
#OKUN BLOOD
#OKUN YOUTHS FOR CHANGE
#EBIGO
#KOGI YOUTH ADVOCATE FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE

By:
nayojudebabatunde2612@gmail.com

CHIEF BEN OLOWODOLA ISN'T JUST A LEADER BUT A BUILDER OF FUTURE LEADERS

By: Comr. Omosona T. Olakunle (Hon. Justice TYDot) President, Benjamin Olowodola Ambassadors (BOA)


Good product is unhidden and need no advertisement, publicity or stress before its beauty, popularity and acceptability is unveiled.


The above statement connotes the real personality and identity of the man *Chief BENJAMIN Olowodola*


His unmatched pedigree, humanitarian exploits and community service is second to none except for the sycophants who always sees their presents stomach infrastructure and forgotten their future as competitive to a long time achievements of decades.


Charity begins at home but should not end there." "Don't just think, do." "The best philanthropy is constantly in search of the finalities, a search for a cause, an attempt to cure evils at their source." Baba as he is fondly called epitomize selflessness, humility and candour. He is always available and ready to pick every personal or community challenge that comes.


*Chief Olowodola* is a man who values his people, he believes in the well-being of the people around him, the holy book says "Love your neighbor as yourself" but *Chief Olowodola* has demonstrated his love for his people beyond loving them just the way he loves himself. He does not close his gate to anyone, rich or poor.


He is not just a thinker but a great positive doer, he is constantly in search for the finalities, he is a curer of evils from the source, his assistant to humanity always come in totality, he doesn't believe in half done progress.

 "The only ones among you who will be really happy are those who will have sought and found how to serve."

*Chief Olowodola* always sought and found pleasure in service to humanity, let no one doubt it, his achievements across all board is physical and incomparable.

_As the builders say, the larger stones do not lie well without the lesser. I own buildings. I'm a builder; I know how to build_.

*Olowodola* is a man that has built with solid foundation in the development of Kabba community and the entire Okun land.

*Building of Ultra-Mordern Skills Aquization Center*, this building is the first of it kind in the entire northern region of Nigeria and it worth several millions of naira, it is a center where Kabba and the entire youths enroll for free in order to acquire different skills so as to be useful for themselves and the society at large. The centrehas become an entrepreneurial training ground of Okun youths.

*Chief Olowodola* isn't just a builder but a giver who always believed in teaching masses how to catch fish, he has makes so many youth to be productive through the reduction in unemployment rates facing our community by helping them to gainfully employed in federal agencies e.g *JAMB, Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Commission* e.t.c

His Printing Press Companies across the nation is another avenue in helping our young Okun publishers, they takes their printing works to there in the vein of having it printed at a cheaper rates, sometimes free, this has help them in meeting up with their daily/weekly and monthly publications without being stressed.


I must say that his Printing Press both in Lagos and Ilorin has also serve as an employment base for our Okun youths, they work in those printing press companies with good earnings.

No man will make a great leader who wants to do it all himself or get all the credit for doing it.

*Chief Olowodola* is not a selfish leader, he never claimed credit to his name even when he does it all by himself, he only understand the fact that he can only become a great leader when he considers and help the young ones to grow politically, he has been using his personal resources in growing the young ones who are politically ambitious to climbed the ladder of leadership, he has done very well in supporting so many Okun sons and daughters in winning elections without party affiliations nor expecting something in returns.

For over a decade the name *Olowodola* have been ringing bell down to the down trodden, he is the father of so many fatherless, his biological children are doing well and living in uprightness in the society.

I see no space for argument, *Chief Olowodola* is not a clannish politician, he embraced everyone and treating them equally, he is a true point of positive and good reference.

The man *Olowodola* is an exceptional leader with unmatchable track records.

I won’t rest until ABU Kabba campus becomes full-fledged university ― Adeyemi

The Senator representing Kogi West, Senator Smart Adeyemi has said that he will not rest until the Presidency signs the Bill for the University in Okun land saying it remains topmost on his agenda.

The Senate Committee on Aviation who made the declaration after an intense lobby on the floor of the senate said that a University in Okun land remains topmost on his agenda.

The Senator who confided in a few constituencies says efforts are on to make the President sign the bill into law upon a passage from both chambers of the National Assembly.

The bill which has gone through the first reading seeks to upgrade the Divisional Agricultural College of the Ahmadu Bello University in Kabba to a full-fledged University of Agriculture, almost sixty years of producing thousands of agriculture professionals.

Senator Smart Adeyemi says Okunland has thousands of professors and has the capacity, resourcefulness and competence to run the proposed University.

The seriousness towards the passage of federal university of agriculture, Kabba by the senate of the federal republic again manifested when the bill came up on Wednesday for its formal first reading. Senator Smart Adeyemi was seen moving round to seek his colleague’s support.

The senator representing Kogi West promised that all efforts and lobbying required would be done to ensure the passage of the bill by the National Assembly.

Constituents across the seven LGA of Kogi West have continued to praise the Senator for understanding the yearnings and aspirations of the people, said it is a clear indication that the Senator is in tune with the reality of his people.

FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE KABBA ESTABLISHMENT BILL : Senator Smart Adeyemi intensifies lobby..

.....Says a University in Okunland remain topmost on his agenda

The senator representing Kogi West and Chairman Senate Committee on Aviation, Senator Smart Adeyemi CON has reinstated that a University in Okunland remain topmost oh his agenda, he made the declaration on Wednesday after an intense lobby on the floor of the Senate to ensure the bill is passed into law, the Senator who confided in a few constituency says efforts are on to make the President sign the bill into law upon passage from both chambers of the National Assembly.


The bill which has gone through first reading seeks to upgrade the Divisional Agricultural College of the Ahmadu Bello University in Kabba to a full fledge University of Agriculture, almost sixty years of producing thousands agriculture professionals. Senator Smart Adeyemi says Okunland has almost a thousand professors and has the capacity, resourcefulness and competence to run the proposed University.


The seriousness towards the passage of federal university of agriculture KABBA by the senate of the federal republic again manifested when the bill came up on Wednesday for its formal first reading. Senator smart Adeyemi was seen moving round to seek for support of his colleagues today in the senate chamber. The senator representing KOGi west promised that all efforts and lobbing required would be done to ensure the passage of the bill by the two chambers of the National Assembly.


Constituents across the seven LGA of Kogi West have continued to praise the Senator for understanding the yearnings and aspirations of the people, they say it is the most audacious way to define representation and a clear indication that the Senator is in tune with the reality of the day.

Gov. Bello allocates portfolios to Commissioners, Special Advisers

The Kogi State Governor, Alh. Yahaya Bello on Wednesday swore in the newly appointed Commissioners with a charge on them to work round the clock and ensure that the state fulfils its potentials.

Speaking at the well attended ceremony held at the Glass house, Government house, Lokoja, Governor Bello reminded the new appointees that their primary allegiance is to the people of the state irrespective of creed and colour.

He urged them to dedicate themselves to the service of the state.
Bello said the state is currently experiencing rapid urbanization and thus requires hard thinking solutions to develop befitting infrastructure for the State.

The new commissioners and their portfolios are:


1- Muhammed SANI IBRAHIM, SAN - Attorney General, and Commissioner for Justice
2- Asiru Asiwaju Idris - Finance, Budget and Economic Planning
3- Saka Haruna - Health
4- Abdulsalam Ozigi Deedat - Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs
5- Daniel Oneal Ejigbo - Rural Development
6- Abubakar Sadiq Ohere - Works and Housing
7- Kingsley Olorunfemi Fanwo - Information
8- David Apeh -Agriculture
9- Wemi Jones Ojo - Education, Science and Technology
10- Omofaiye Adewale - Environment
11- Isah Idachaba - Culture and Tourism
12- Joseph Baron Okwoli - Transportation
13- Gabriel Yunusa Olofu - Commerce and Industry
14- Fatima Kabir Buba - Women Affairs and Social Development
15- Abdulmumin Danga - Water Resources
16- Idris Musa - Youths and Sports Development
17- Abubakar Bashir Mohammed - Solid Minerals and Natural Resources

In the same vein, the Governor appointed Nasiru Ohiani as the Special Adviser on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Ohiani replaced Abdulmumin Okara as the SDGs boss.

The former Director General Protocol, Dr Gabriel Ottah was redeployed as Special Adviser, Education, Science and Technology.

HON. LEKE ABEJIDE CONGRATULATES THE 4TH EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF KOGI STATE AND HIS DEPUTY ON THE INAUGURATION OF THEIR 2ND TERM.

Hon. Asiwaju Leke Abejide, Member, representing Yagba East, Yagba West and Mopa Amuro Federal Constituency congratulates the 4th Executive Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello and His Deputy Hon. Edward David Onoja, as they commence their second term in office.

Congratulations on your peaceful transition as you continue in piloting the affairs of the state for another four (4) years.

Kogites are hopeful that your second tenure in office will continue to project the "NEW DIRECTION BLUEPRINT"  to unify and thicken socio-economic growth within the state.

In your second term of administration, we believe you will match your leadership with adequate advancement needed to make the state great and to justify their support during the last election.

I want to urge all indigenes of Kogi State to work with the government as a team, as the state is ours and we must collectively see to its growth and progress.

Once again I wish His Excellency Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello, and His Deputy Hon. Edward David Onoja a successful tenure of office.

SECOND TERM INAUGURATION: Elder Olowodola congratulate GYB/CEDO, says inaugural speech is reassuring of an all encompassing governance.

All Progressives Congress  political leader in Kabba district of the Kabba/Bunu LGA and popular philanthropist, Elder Benjamin Olowodola has congratulated the Governor of KOGI state, Alh Yahaya Bello and his deputy, Chief Edward David Onoja, over their historic swearing in ceremony held yesterday at the Government House, Lokoja. He says the successful inauguration has given way for real business of government to begin for total infrastructural overhaul, economic advancement and continued service to Kogi State.


The Elder statesman who had to cut short a month long business trip to Europe to attend the swearing in ceremony says the stress, time and resources spent to be available is a demonstration of his commitment to see the government succeed. Elder Benjamin Olowodola who was personally invited by the Governor says Governor Yahaya Bello is pragmatic, resourceful and ready to consolidate on the gains of his first tenure through focused leadership and inclusive governance. He says closer interaction with the Governor reveals a man full of passion for development, endowed with the energy to make things happen and very well cordinated to deliver on all promises made.


*I am very elated and proud to be a part of the inauguration of the second term of the Governor and his Deputy, I feel especially delighted to see a new Kogi where ethnic chauvinism, religious propensity and nepotism have given way for love, unity of purpose and peaceful coexistence. The Governor have put in a four years of laying foundation for new Kogi, rebuilding lost confidence in our unity, rewriting history of governance and establishing a sustainable developmental drive across the three Senatorial district. His contagious passion, irresistible energy and focused leadership are assets that will define the next four years to the advantage of the people of Kogi State. I therefore join national leaders,friends, political associates and your teeming supporters to congratulate you and wish you a resounding success in this second term* Olowodola says


The Elderstatesman also thank Kogites for standing by the party throughout the electioneering process, he promised to continue to offer his useful support to government and the people.

Inauguration: Faleke congratulates Gov. Bello, Urges Kogites to cooperate with the Governor for a better Prosperous Kogi State.

Chairman House of Representatives committee on Finance and former deputy governorship candidate to late Prince Abubakar Audu, James Abiodun Faleke has congratulated Governor Bello on his inauguration for a second term.

Faleke who attended the swearing-in ceremony in Government House Lokoja today, said he’s convinced that Kogites would witness a higher level of development and prosperity in the next four years.

Congratulating him for his new tenure, Hon. Faleke pray that God will guide him to deliver on his promises to Kogites.

He also urge kogites to give the Governor the needed cooperation and support for a better and prosperous Kogi State.

Rt.Hon. Faleke, in a statement made available immediately on Monday after the inauguration, described the inauguration of the Governor as positive development and a demonstration of the collective wishes of Kogi people for the entrenchment of democracy in the State.

Again, Hon. Leke Abejide pays N72m WAEC fees for students in Yagba Federal Constituency.

House of Representatives member (ADC-Yagba Kogi State) has paid the West African Examination Certificate (WAEC) fees and other administrative charges for students in public and private secondary schools in his constituency. The lawmaker paid over N72million to enable the beneficiaries undertake the examination and reduce the burden of WAEC fees on parents.

The DG, Leke Abejide Foundation, Hon. Shola Adebola Gaddafi disclosed this on Thursday in Kogi State while presenting cheques to principals of public and private secondary schools in his constituency that benefited from the gesture. “Today, we are presenting cheques of N72,000,000 to principals of public secondary schools of our constituency

“This is part of my commitment to improve on the standard of education and to reduce the burden of WAEC fees on parents. “The importance of education to societal development cannot be overemphasised, hence the need for the gesture,’’ he said.

Hon. LEKE ABEJIDE also disclosed that in 2019, he had paid WAEC fees for students in the Constituency even before he got elected and that this year's payment is in fulfilment of campaign promises made to the people of Yagba to continue the payment for the period of four years in office.

The legislator urged the beneficiaries to take their studies with seriousness to excel in their academic pursuits in the interest of development.

Hon. Leke restated his commitment to initiate good policies and programmes that would have direct bearing on the lives of the people of his constituency and the country at large.

See photos of the event below:

ICPC: Kogi State Former Commissioner for Agriculture, Zaccheaus Atte bags 19 Years Jail Term for corruption.

ICPC has secured the conviction of Mr. Zachaeus Atte, a former Commissioner for Agriculture in Kogi State, North-Central Nigeria.

Mr. Atte was convicted on corruption charges by a Kogi State High Court sitting in Okene, Kogi State and presided over by Hon. Justice J.J Majebi. He was found guilty on 7 out of the 11 counts of the charge preferred against him by ICPC.

The convict who is to serve a total of 19 years jail term, was sentenced to 5 years imprisonment each on counts 1 and 3 without an option of fine, for collecting the sum of =N=11,937,000:00 and =N=8,873,766:85K respectively, being money meant for the raising and distribution of Oil Palm Sprouted Nuts Seedlings” to cocoa farmers in Kogi State but did not raise nor distribute same. This is an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 19 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act 2000 (ICPC Act).

He was also sentenced on count 2 to five years imprisonment without an option of fine, “for receiving the sum of =N=350,000:00 being amount earmarked to defray the transportation costs of the farmers during the cocoa seedlings distribution exercise” but failed to do so.

This is also an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 19 of the ICPC Act.
The former Commissioner was further sentenced to 1 year imprisonment each on counts 8 to 11 for “spending from the sum of =N=2,849,953:75K being amount earmarked for the purchase of office equipment on what he called Statewide Sensitization Tour; visit to Lagos from Lokoja on issues of Power Tiller; and Video Coverage” contrary to and punishable under section 22(5) of the ICPC Act.

While reading his judgment, the trial judge justified the conviction of the defendant by noting that the ICPC Legal team comprising Late Suberu Enebere Esq., Okey Golden Iwuagu Esq., and Peace Arocha Esq. (Mrs.) had proved its case beyond reasonable doubt.

13 YEARS AFTER, KABBA PEOPLE UNITE FOR A POLITICAL LEADER, AS APC ADOPTS ELDER BEN OLOWODOLA

In what appears to be an adoption, the Kabba people in the All Progressive Congress have declared support for Chief Benjamin Olowodola, philanthropist extraordinaire, doyen of youth empowerment and frontline community leader as their generally accepted political leader, thirteen years after the death of late political leader, Arc Steve Olorunfemi.

Rising from a well attended meeting of APC political stalwarts in Kabba on Friday 17th January, the people unanimously and collectively adopted the man who has been a major financier of developmental activities and programme of the people.


One after the other, the political actors in the community prayed  encouraged and adopted Chief Olowodola to lead them, going forward. The people noted during their discussions that the time has now come to adopt an individual as a rallying point and political leader, they opined that absence of a unifying factor generally adopted as a political leader has been a bane of expected political progress and in view of the political reality, it became important to adopt the man who has been a burden bearer, shoulder at a time of political and communal confusion and a truly unifying person to lead the community on the political front.


Speaking at the meeting,  All Progressive Congress Vice Chairman of the Local government, Chief Oloniyo went memory lane to extol the good virtues, political ingenuity and developmental strides of late Arc Steve Olorunfemi,  he says the political history of Owe people can't be well captured without a glaring and repeated mention of the life and time of late Arc Steve Olorunfemi, he thereafter pray that Chief Olowodola be given by God all he needs to lead the people. Former Chairman of Kabba/Bune LGA and Obajana of Oweland Chief Funsho Olorunfemi declared unalloyed and unflinching support for the leadership of Chief Olowodola and assured him of his support and counsel. Former Chairman of the Local government and a titled Chief in the community,  Barr Fadile also assured of his readiness to submit and be loyal to the leader.


Also present at the meeting were party executive at ward and local government level, retired Assistant Comptroller General of Customs, Elder Jimmy Olumidi,  former Permanent Secretary, Elder Steve Makun, Lagos based businessman Elder Ayodele Adeniyi, Col. Yomi Dare rtd, former member Kogi State House of Assembly and immediate past Special Adviser to the Governor, Hon Jethro Funsho Oni, Hon Ade Olamife, former Kogi West Senatorial Candidate, Omoluabi Bode Adeyemi, Chief Julius Arokoyo, Chief Ajibade, Hon Fred Aiyenale, Hon Segun Olorunpomi Hajia Rekiya Alfa and very many political leaders of APC in Kabba.

While thanking the people for the confidence reposed in him, Elder Benjamin Olowodola says he has been supporting APC in his little ways since 2014 after being practically dragged into partisan politics, he says his role is to unite his people to support the Government to bring development, he says he has determined to use his God given resources, intellect and time to serve the people. He commended the Governor for his renewed focus, leadership, pragmatism and assured that the entire people will give the needed support to make him do more in his second term, he assured the people that he will always liase with the Government to bring development to Oweland.

Frontline APC Youth, Okuta Bola, Golden Son Survives Car Crash(Photos)

Mr. Okuta Bola popular known as Golden Son, a frontline APC youth mobilizer and ardent supporter in Kabba/Bunu LGA of Kogi State has survived a ghastly auto crash at Eja junction in Kabba Town.

The accident, which occurred at exactly 10:10 p.m, on Tuesday involved another Vehicle which was badly damaged.

Golden Son vehicle fuy branded with the Governor Yahaya Bello and Kogi State Speaker campaign posters unexpectedly hit another car carrying passengers and luggages from behind and got the two vehicles badly damaged.

Golden Son said he was grateful to God for saving his life, adding that he is alive, strong and hearty.
The APC youth faithful plead for support from leaders of the party and even across party line to be able to fix both vehicles and resolve the matter amicably.

In a post on his social media, Golden son said "Despite of my perseverance, the devil tried and lost.

This incidence happened last night but alas we both came out sound.
May your name be praised for ever Jehovah.


See photos of the crash.

CONGRATULATORY MESSAGE TO ELDER BENJAMIN OLOWODOLA ON YOUR UNANIMOUS ADOPTION AS THE APC LEADER OF KABBA DISTRICT

Compliments of the season my leader sir.  It is a compulsory and patriotic duty of a patriotic association or individual to eulogise or identifying with patriotic leadership whom in all ramification have distinguished hismself through commitments, and dedication to matters that can ensure the growth and the development of the people-  you are a progressive thinker.


I am elated to congratulate and felicitate with you over your endorsement as 'KABBA APC LEADER'. I join with your friends, families and admirers in offering you my heartiest congratulations. May your unremitting endeavor in APC party go on with undiminished vigor! I am not surprised of your popular endorsement  because a leader of your caliber and intelligence is bound to fare excellently.


As an informed and articulate comrade, I will look forward to working with you for the betterment of Okunland, for which I serve, as the fourth ODA youth wing.
  May God continue to help you as you are saddled with the responsibility to pilot the affairs of APC party in kabba to an enviable height. I besiege you to look beyond personal egocentrism and selfish aggrandizement and hit the nail on the head, on your assignment, to its contemporaries across the senatorial district in the state of our belonging. I also urge you to stand by your own pedigree with a measure of intellectual credentials that will prepare you to navigate the complex compass of good governance.

Once again, congratulations sir!
 
From

Okun Youth Development Association(OYDA- ODUDUWA)
Fourth National President  Elect,
COMRADE YEMI JEMIRADE MOSES.

13 YEARS AFTER, KABBA PEOPLE UNITE FOR A POLITICAL LEADER, AS APC ADOPTS ELDER BEN OLOWODOLA

In what appears to be an adoption, the Kabba people in the All Progressive Congress have declared support for Chief Benjamin Olowodola, philanthropist extraordinaire, doyen of youth empowerment and frontline community leader as their generally accepted political leader, thirteen years after the death of late political leader, Arc Steve Olorunfemi.

Rising from a well attended meeting of APC political stalwarts in Kabba on Friday 17th January, the people unanimously and collectively adopted the man who has been a major financier of developmental activities and programme of the people.


One after the other, the political actors in the community prayed  encouraged and adopted Chief Olowodola to lead them, going forward. The people noted during their discussions that the time has now come to adopt an individual as a rallying point and political leader, they opined that absence of a unifying factor generally adopted as a political leader has been a bane of expected political progress and in view of the political reality, it became important to adopt the man who has been a burden bearer, shoulder at a time of political and communal confusion and a truly unifying person to lead the community on the political front.


Speaking at the meeting,  All Progressive Congress Vice Chairman of the Local government, Chief Oloniyo went memory lane to extol the good virtues, political ingenuity and developmental strides of late Arc Steve Olorunfemi,  he says the political history of Owe people can't be well captured without a glaring and repeated mention of the life and time of late Arc Steve Olorunfemi, he thereafter pray that Chief Olowodola be given by God all he needs to lead the people. Former Chairman of Kabba/Bune LGA and Obajana of Oweland Chief Funsho Olorunfemi declared unalloyed and unflinching support for the leadership of Chief Olowodola and assured him of his support and counsel. Former Chairman of the Local government and a titled Chief in the community,  Barr Fadile also assured of his readiness to submit and be loyal to the leader.


Also present at the meeting were party executive at ward and local government level, retired Assistant Comptroller General of Customs, Elder Jimmy Olumidi,  former Permanent Secretary, Elder Steve Makun, Lagos based businessman Elder Ayodele Adeniyi, Col. Yomi Dare rtd, former member Kogi State House of Assembly and immediate past Special Adviser to the Governor, Hon Jethro Funsho Oni, Hon Ade Olamife, former Kogi West Senatorial Candidate, Omoluabi Bode Adeyemi, Chief Julius Arokoyo, Chief Ajibade, Hon Fred Aiyenale, Hon Segun Olorunpomi Hajia Rekiya Alfa and very many political leaders of APC in Kabba.

While thanking the people for the confidence reposed in him, Elder Benjamin Olowodola says he has been supporting APC in his little ways since 2014 after being practically dragged into partisan politics, he says his role is to unite his people to support the Government to bring development, he says he has determined to use his God given resources, intellect and time to serve the people. He commended the Governor for his renewed focus, leadership, pragmatism and assured that the entire people will give the needed support to make him do more in his second term, he assured the people that he will always liase with the Government to bring development to Oweland.

I will always be part of Bunu's development-Hon. Kehinde Oloruntoba

By Gideon Ayodele

The former commissioner for Agriculture, Hon. Kehinde Oloruntoba has assured the people of Bunuland in Kabba/Bunu local government area of Kogi state that be it in office or out of office, he will always do only those things that will bring development to the kingdom.
He made this promise while recieving awards and acholades at the reception organised in his honour by the Bunu Committee of Friends in Iluke the headquarter of Bunuland recently.
While addressing the crowd at the reception, Hon. Oloruntoba confirmed that he has never been close to his home of origin until he was given appointment to serve under the Governor Yahaya Bello led government, this he said availed him the opportunity of coming close to his people and ever since then has fallen in love with his people who he described as dear to his heart.
"Life to me is about impacting and affecting lives positively, being a solution to people's problem"
"What gives me joy mostly is not what I have aquired, be it material or what have you, but seeing people happy because of my little impact on them"
"I have grown to see the need to make myself meaningful to people's life and I thank His Excellency, Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello for the privilege given to me to serve in his cabinet, through which I have been able to achieve my desire to positely affect the people around me"
The Chairman of the Organising committee, Hon. Durosinmi Meseko and his secretary, Otunba Kingsley Mokikan in a joint voice described Hon. Kehinde Oloruntoba as a pride of the Bunuland who has made the community proud because of his performance when he served in the various capacities he has served in the last four years.
They described him as a bundle of ideas and results oriented individual who when given an inch  assignment, one can surely expect a mile result.
They all prayed that God will grant him favour before Himself and his principals to consider him worthy of another opportunity to serve.

Hon. Kehinde Oloruntoba is a change champion-Onoja

By Gideon Ayodele

Kogi state Deputy Governor, His Excellency, Edward Onoja have described the immediate past commissioner for Agriculture, Hon. Kehinde Oloruntoba as a change champion.

The Deputy Governor, represented by the Deputy Chief of staff to the government, Hon. Sunday Faleke stated this last Saturday at the Grand reception organised by the Bunu Committee of Friends in honor of Hon. Oloruntoba who has served in various capacities under the administration of Governor Yahaya Bello in the last four years.

Hon. Sunday Faleke said that Oloruntoba while in the ministry of budget and planning handled the affairs of the ministry as if the ministry never existed before he came there.

He also confirmed that Hon Kehinde Oloruntoba has performed excellently well in the ministry of Agriculture and has made the ministry the hub of the state.

"Hon. Kehinde Oloruntoba is intelligent, resourceful, easy going, listening, principled and direct. He always return to his people. This can be attested by the good people of Bunu Kingdom. I on this auspicious occasion want to congratulate him for doing justice to the jobs given him and pray that the mercies of God will never come to an end in his life" said Faleke.

The Olubunu of Bunu Kingdom, HRM Oba Ikusemoro represented by the Olu of Ayetoro Kiri, HRH, Oba Adetoro Olusegun Durowaiye thank God for such opportunity to celebrate n of theirs who has made the Bunuland proud through his service to the good people of Kogi state and Bunuland in particular.

He charged the Bunu people and all present to use any God given position for the betterment of others remembering that one day you will leave the office, and what will people say about you. The honor bestowed upon Oloruntoba today is a lesson to every office holders.

Honorable Kehinde Oloruntoba thanked the organisers for seeing him worthy of the awards and the reception, promised to always be part of Bunu development and mankind at large.

The Federal High Court in Abuja just struck out Natasha Akpoti's case

BREAKING NEWS...

The Federal High Court in Abuja just struck out Natasha Akpoti's case against Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State for alleged double registration as without merit and baseless.

The court held that she lacks locus standi to institute the matter in the first place, and that no matter how sensational she may think it is, it has utterly failed to confer on the court any grounds to entertain it.

It will be recalled that Miss Akpoti, candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the 2019 Kogi State Gubernatorial Elections had approached the court to disqualify the Governor from the polls which he later won in spectacular fashion.

In his judgment this morning, Justice I. E Ekwo of Federal High Court 5, Abuja ruled the matter as dead on arrival.

Details later...

BREAKING: Supreme Court sacks Ihedioha, declares Hope Uzodinma winner

The Supreme Court has declared Senator Hope Uzodinma of the All Progressives Congress as duly elected Governor of Imo State.

The court ruled that all votes due to Hope Uzodinma unlawfully excluded from 318 polling units be added  and  the certificate of return issued Emeka Ihedioha be withdrawn immediately.

It was a unanimous decision of 7 member panel.



Details soon…

My people’s migration started from inside Ooni’s palace –Obaro of Kabba punchng.comJan 11, 2020 1:06 AM

Obaro Otitoleke Oweyomade I, Oba Dele Awoniyi

Obaro of Kabba in Kogi State, also known as Obaro Otitoleke Oweyomade I, Oba Dele Awoniyi, tells GBENGA ODOGUN about Kabba, its relationship with Ile-Ife, regarded as the spiritual homeland of Yoruba people, among other issues

Your predecessor, Oba Michael Olobayo, passed on in 2016, how did the responsibility to succeed him fall on you?

I was born in Ile-Ife in 1957. I went to school briefly there and came to Kabba in 1966. I finished primary education in 1970. Between 1971 and 1975, I was at Ijumu Anglican Secondary School, Iyara, near Kabba. From there, I went to the University of Ibadan, Oyo State and graduated in 1979. I had my National Youth Service Corps programme in Niger State after which I got appointment with the Nigerian Television Authority, Minna in 1980. I worked there for eight years and joined the Nigeria Customs Service in 1988. I worked in different parts of the country before I retired in 2015 as a Deputy Comptroller of Customs. When the late Oba joined his ancestors in 2016 and it was the turn of my clan to produce the next Obaro, the responsibility fell on me.

What is the history of Kabba people?

There are many stories of how we got here; some say we came from Egypt and some say we are from Kwararafa, but those are not our stories. I have the authentic version of the story. The genuine story we have is that two hunters came from Ile-Ife about 2,000 years ago and settled in this place, which is today known as Kabba. We are told that they were children of the same parents. They were hunters; one had seven children and the other had six and each child formed a clan. We have 13 clans altogether and they make up Kabba today. In a nutshell, that’s how we started.

Does the relationship between Ile-Ife and Kabba still exist today?

Oh yes, it exists. Two years ago when our people visited the current Ooni of Ife (Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi), they showed our people a particular place in the palace where Kabba people migrated from. So, we know our source and origin. We speak Yoruba. For those who say they are from Saudi Arabia, good luck to them.

How will you describe the relationship between Kabba and the adjoining people, Ebira?

They came from the far North to settle here and we have been living peacefully ever since. There is no record that we ever went to war with them so our relationship has been cordial. Many of them can even speak our dialect fluently and that should show you how cordial our relationship is. We have even recommended that the Igbira Oba should be graded just like any other Oba in Kabba.

Do you have any festival that brings people from different clans together?

There is no festival that cuts across every community; each community has its own peculiar festivals. We have Egungun, we have Ebora, but at the end of the day, we worship the same God in different ways. In Kabba, we don’t worship idols, we worship the Almighty God but the traditional worship is still there and we all coexist peacefully.

How do Christianity, Islam and other religions manage to coexist here?

Culture is dynamic; there is no conflict. Everybody is free to practise any religion of their choice.

How many ruling houses do we have in Kabba?

We have three (ruling houses). We have 13 clans which were divided into three ruling houses: Odolu ruling house with four clans; Okaba ruling house with six clans; and Katu ruling house with three clans, making 13 clans in all. But they were all divided into three known as Oke-Meta.

What is the succession process for Obaro of Kabba?

There have been problems in the past. According to our culture, when an Obaro dies, everybody in all the ruling houses is qualified to contest. But you know how rowdy it will be for 13 families to be competing for one throne. That was why we used to have problems in the past but a panel (that was set up) in its wisdom said since you we were traditionally divided into three, we should rotate it among the three houses. When someone from Okaba group dies, Odolu, where I belong, is required to produce the king.

Do you think your people fully accepted you?

For you to be Obaro, you have to be popular and acceptable to your people and for you to be acceptable, you must have contributed to the development of the community. I have done that in the past and I’m still doing it. In fact, when the position of Obaro became vacant, with every sense of modesty, I can say I was the man to beat in the race. This was due to my people’s recognition of my significant contributions to the development of the community.

Where will you like to see Kabba in another 10 years?

I will like to see a Kabba that is more open to development. We want industrial development. We want our secondary schools to return to the old ways, which was science-based and with adequate and well equipped laboratories because science is the bedrock of industrial development. I will like everyone to embrace science so as to move Kabba forward.

New Obas often inherit the wives left by the late king; did you also inherit the wives of the former Obaro?

No, that is not part of our tradition; we don’t even have a central palace. We are just trying to build a befitting one. Will I go to someone else’s house to inherit his wife? No, we don’t do that here.

Before you became the Obaro, what special connection did you have with the people of Kabba?

In 1978, as a young man, I was the president of Kabba Students’ Union when I was in university. I’m a member of Kabba Development Union and have contributed individually and collectively to the development of the community. That is why everybody in the community loves me. My people have been wonderful as regards the support they have been giving to me since I became the Obaro.

Governor Bello Constitutes N30,000 New Minimum Wage Committee

The Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Yahaya Bello in his commitment to improved workers’ welfare has approved the constitution of a fourteen-man (14-man) committee for the negotiations of the implementation of the New National Minimum Wage in Kogi State.

Members of the committee are:

Mrs. Folashade Arike Ayoade,  PH.d - Secretary to the Government of Kogi State - Chairperson

Elder (Mrs.) Deborah Ogunmola, Head of Civil service - Member

Hon. Ibrahim Muhammed Sani (SAN), Special Adviser to the Governor of Legal Matters - Member

Hon. Asiwaju Asiru Idris, Special Adviser to the Governor on Finance, Budget and Economic Planning - Member

Engr. Abubakar Ohere Sadiq, Special Adviser to the Governor on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs - Member

Hon. Momoh Jibrin, State Accountant-General - Member

Hon. Okala Yakubu, State Auditor-General - Member

Hon. Usman Ododo, Local Government Auditor-General - Member

Comrade Akeji Yusuf, Chairman Joint Negotiating Council - Member

Comrade Tade Adeyemi, Nigeria Union of Local Government Employee (NULGE). - Member

Comrade I.A Abubakar, Joint Negotiating Council - Member

Comrade Thomas Ayodele, Nigeria Union of Teachers - Member

Comrade Meliga Obaka, Association of Senior Civil Servants - Member

Hon. Kingsley Fanwo, Special Adviser to the Governor on Information and Communication Strategy - Secretary

The committee will be inaugurated on Tuesday, 14th January at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Lokoja by 11am Prompt.

Onogwu Galacticus II
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.

Sen Melaye paid Condolence Visit to Family of Late Barr Kola Ojo In Lagos

Sen Dino Melaye, today, paid condolence visit to family  of late Barr Kola Taiwo-Ojo, (PDP Chairman, Kogi West Senatorial District) in Lagos.

Sen Melaye who received the news of the death of the PDP chieftain and brother with shock few days ago.

At the Lagos home of Barr. Kola Taiwo-Ojo, the wife, children and some family members were present, Sen Dino Melaye condole with the widow and children and urge them to take solace in fact that, Barr Kola Taiwo-Ojo has gone to be with the lord.

In his word, Sen Melaye said the life and times of Barr Kola Ojo as well as his huge contributions to humanity, community and political development are indelible.
His legacy shall live on!

Some of the feature of the visit include; words of exhortation, prayers consolation message and signing of condolence register.

Sen. Melaye was accompanied by Otunba Kingsley Mokikan (PDP Youth Leader, Kogi West Senatorial District), Pastor Femi Obalemo and Barr. Jaiyeola Ajayi among others.

Sen Dino Melaye prayed for the wife, children and entire family and assured them of a befitting burial from the side of the party and committee of friends.

It could be recalled that Barr. Kola Taiwo-Ojo died in Lagos on January 7, 2020.

Hon. Leke Abejide: Revitalizing Roads In Yagba Federal Constituency

 Development that connects the people and communities, we are linked by the same culture, we develop together to give rise to the greater society we always loved to see ~Hon. Leke Abejide.

Looking at the situations of our road networks in Yagba Federal Constituency, Hon. Leke Abejide in his welfarism way has been able to reconnect towns and villages by putting most of these roads in order. Over time roads around yagba has been receiving good top-notch, through the benevolent and goodwill of Hon. Asiwaju Leke Abejide.

The pathetic situation of Okeoyi bridge was nothing to write home about before now, the roads were mere thoroughfares. As a matter of fact, deterring communities around the area from have robust connections. Presently the roads are receiving attention and have been overhauled, potholes are being filled, grading machine restructuring the roads to be motorable.

The Alu-Igbo Ero road and Oyi bridge now better than they used to be, revitalization of our roads is the vital part that the honourable member giving serious attention.

Our people can always connect when our road networks are in good conditions, farming and extra efforts they attach to daily activities would be a lot easier than ever.

We are legislating to revitalize, connect and touch lives with extra modalities for our own people and environments within Yagba.

Group lauds Gov. Bello's giant strides in first term

GYB support group known as GYB CONNECT, has lauded the giant strides of Gov. Yahaya Bello of Kogi in all sectors of the economy within four years of his first term in office.

Mrs Ireti Ojekhoa, the spokesperson of the Group, gave the commendation on Saturday, when they paid a courtesy visit to the Governor at Government House, Lokoja.

Ojekhoa said that their commitment for GYB’s re-election was in line with the giant strides his administration recorded in the first term, stressing that there was no need substituting a performing governor.

He thanked the governor for recognising their efforts while assuring him that the group would stand with the government in the second term

In his response, the governor thanked members of the group for their selfless service during the electioneering campaign, describing them as patriotic Nigerians.

Bello noted that the members of the group who were drawn from all states of the Federation, worked tirelessly with the APC Campaign Council in Kogi State during the 2019 gubernatorial election to ensure the party triumph at the polls.

''Even without any government direct support to you, your members campaigned across the 239 wards in Kogi State, and also distributed campaign materials procured by yourselves.

''GYB Connect group went as far as carrying out free medical outreach, sinking boreholes and also showcasing government achievements in the last four years to the people.

''We appreciate all your efforfs and for putting up different groups across Nigeria to give our great party maximum support in the last election.

''We promise that your members would not be forgotten in our second term,'' he said.

Bello added his government would surely recognise the group, and directed his Chief of Staff to liaise with the group for effective communication.

Also speaking, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pharm. Jamiu Abdulkareem Asuku, thanked the group and assured them of Government's collaboration in the second term of GYB's administration.

PDP Mourns Kola Ojo, Says He Was A Rare Breed

The national leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has been in shock and grief over the death of our Zonal Vice Chairman, in Kogi West, Barrister Kola Ojo.

The party describes Barr. Kola Ojo as a rare breed and patriot, who gave his all towards the unity, stability and progress of our dear nation and particularly our great party and the people of Kogi state.

Barr. Kola Ojo was one of the contemporary leading lights who also devoted his time, energy and resources in the rebuilding of our party, in addition to his innumerable sacrifices for the welfare and development of party members and the people of Kogi state.

The national leadership is particularly pained that Barr. Kola Ojo left the stage at the time our party, especially in Kogi state, needs his wealth of experience, goodwill and unparalleled commitment the more.

Indeed, Barr. Ojo’s death is a huge blow not only for the PDP family but also for Kogi state and the nation at large and we pray God to grant his family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.

Signed:

Kola Ologbondiyan
National Publicity Secretary

Late Kogi West PDP Chairman For Burial

The family of Barr Taiwo Kola-Ojo, the late Zonal chairman of Kogi West District of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has announced February 14 and 15, 2020, for his funeral programme.
The late Zonal Chairman died in Lagos, on January  7, 2020.

His burial in his country home, Okoro-Gbede , Ijumu Local Government Area, Kogi State, will be preceded by a commendation service that would hold in Lagos, at a date and venue to be announced by the family.

Barr Taiwo Kola-Ojo, who is survived by a wife and four children,  built his career in Banking  before his retirement from the Central Bank of Nigeria, was elected as Zonal Chairman of Kogi West PDP, and was on his second term in office before his sudden death.
He is credited for invigorating the activities of the party and was generally acknowledged as a mature politician, who conducted his political activities within his party and across party lines without bitterness.

Kogi state governments mourns Baba Molemodile

Kogi State Government Press Release


JN MOLEMODILE: KOGI HAS LOST A PATRIOT AND BRIDGE BUILDER

The Kogi State Government received with shock today, the demise of one of the best financial experts of his generation, a Patriot and a passionate believer in the Kogi dream, Chief J. N. Molemodile.
The late Chief Molemodile was a former Commissioner of Finance in the Late Prince Abubakar Audu Administration. He brought a lot Of innovations and financial engineering to bear on the management of the state’s finances and continued to render selfless services to the State and humanity even long after leaving Office.
Losing such an enigmatic character at a time the State is refocusing her finances to serve the people and create more opportunities is hard to take and also disheartening.
Moreso that the late Patriot believed so much in the policies and person of the Governor, Alh. Yahaya Bello as displayed by his yeoman’s role in ensuring the second term of the Governor.
As a State, our hearts are with the family of the deceased and the people of Isanlu at this trying moment of losing a pillar of hope.  Our consolation is that the Governor and the Government he so believed in have the opportunity to continue to serve the people in order to immortalize the ideology of service and selfless leadership that the late icon represented.
On our part as a Government, the Governor has directed his officials to ensure the state plays a leading role in giving the departed a befitting burial.
We shall also ensure his name is immortalized to drive home the sterling rewards of service and patriotism that the late Chief Molemodile stood for.
May God grant the family, the Isanlu community and the entire State the fortitude to bear the irremediable loss.

Signed:

Evangelist Kingsley Fanwo

Special Adviser to the Governor on Information and Communication Strategy

Kogi Guber: Tribunal orders INEC to allow parties inspect materials in Kogi.

Kogi State Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal has ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to allow candidates to the election inspect electoral materials used in the gubernatorial election in the state. The presiding judge gave the order at the inaugural sitting of the tribunal, yesterday in Abuja.

The petitioner is Wada, who is the gubernatorial candidate of PDP.

Our correspondent reports the applicants prayed the court to grant them leave to go through the materials to enable them prove their cases before the tribunal.

Presiding judge granted the application and ordered INEC to allow the petitioners to go through the governorship election materials and also let them make photocopies of the documents.

Kogi West political leaders visit Tawari, donate relief materials

Political leaders from Kogi  West Senatorial District yesterday visited Tawari to commiserate with the people over the recent invasion by armed men which led to loss of lives. The leaders also donated relief materials to survivors to cushion the hardship that they may experience as a result of the crisis.

The team led by All Progressives Congress (APC) leader from the area,  Elder Benjamin Olowodola, were first received by the Aguma of Tawari, Alhaji Yusuf Tawari in his palace which was also torched during the mayhem.

The Aguma recounted the experience and how he narrowly escaped what he described as the most devastating attack of his life. He said he escaped death by the whiskers as the assailants burnt his residence while family members were asleep. He wondered why anyone could contemplate attacking a peaceful, law abiding and homogenous community which have cohabited with neighbours over several centuries.

A former Kogi West senatorial candidate, Omoluabi Bode Adeyemi  said they were in the community to commiserate with the people and also contribute their quota in the rebuilding of the ruins left behind by the attackers. Responding, the Administrator of Kogi LGA  Barr Mohammed Sanni who received the delegation thanked them for identifying with the people in their time of needs.

Dailytrust

Alhaji Lateef Logunleko (Late) An Engine Room of Courage And A Radical Political Icon. Iconically Missed.

Late Alhaji Lateef

By Tenibi Samuel

Years back when I was in Akure, as one of the active chief Admins of FALEKE RESCUE MISSION, a platform created my Leader Brass,  I noticed that someone posted something in the platform, maybe excess pictures or something like that and I immediately raised my hammer of caution. Woww, it was Alhaji Lateef, I didn't know who is who not until I began to receive private messages about who I just cautioned. I began to ask myself, who is this man? Oh, is that how powerful he is? I immediately dialed his number and apologized. Through this development I knew that Alhaji Lateef (Late) was a political colossus who own the political structures of Iyamoye. Since then, I heard people talking about how nice he was. I even heard some people telling me that he could help my career then.

Now at Omorewo's villa, immediately I entered the compound for Birthday get together maybe 2017 or something like that, I saw men in agbadas perhaps in white color with a cap boldly written the F that formulates the FALEKE in our principal's name. Someone mentioned my name immediately and I was called to move forward, I was introduced to Alhaji and he embraced me, I apologized again and he said the issue was gone long before now. What made me to remember this day in particular is Alhaji Lateef made me to sit in the company that of men, when I said men, I mean MEN, he went and brought plastic chair himself of which I took from him. He offered me (itowo they were eating that day) I felt relaxed and honored by this.

Being a political juggernaut, during our sojourn in ADC I was relaxed that he was going to hold Iyamoye for us not until I heard of his illness.

No doubt, I great man had deceased, a repository of courage, a tough and radical loyalist of JaF had gone.

Let's do good not because of today but because of tomorrow.

May the soul of the deceased person find eternal rest.

To His Excellency, accept my condolence sir. To the people of KPC, may the goof God give us the fortitude to bear this great loss of a great icon.

Permit me to say, *Alhaji Lateef Logunleko* Live On  ✌🏼