Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has described the immediate past Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, as a “fantastic father and political mentor” whose leadership laid the foundation for inclusive development and people-centered governance in the state.
Governor Ododo made this known on Tuesday during a stakeholders’ engagement at Idozumi, Bariki Ward in Okene Local Government Area, where he was warmly received by traditional rulers, political leaders, youth, and women groups.
The Governor, who used the opportunity to reinforce his administration’s commitment to sustaining the legacy of his predecessor, said he remains a proud student of Yahaya Bello’s political ideology rooted in service, equity, and collective progress.
“Let me reaffirm before you all that our leader and the former Governor, Yahaya Bello, is a fantastic father. We shall not deviate from the template of all-inclusive governance. Everything we are doing is focused on consolidating his achievements and improving the lives of our people,” he stated
He commended the former Governor for his sacrifices and for raising individuals from less privileged backgrounds to positions of influence, adding that many of his lieutenants are now helping to shape and transform their communities across the state for the better.
Governor Ododo urged the people of Kogi State to continue to support and pray for the former Governor and his family, while also commending the residents of Bariki ward for their unity, dedication, and consistent support for the administration.
He called on community stakeholders to close ranks, reconcile differences, and work together to advance development and peaceful co-existence across the ward and the entire state.
Speaking on behalf of political appointees from the area, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Grassroots Mobilization, Hon. Halidu Abdullahi, applauded Governor Ododo for his humane disposition to the people and inclusive style of leadership.
He assured that Bariki Ward would continue to support the Governor’s administration, adding that stakeholders in all four segments and 43 polling units in the ward are fully mobilized in support of his vision to transform Kogi State.
Ismaila Isah
Special Adviser on Media to the Governor
May 7, 2025
