By joshua Why FGYB Should Not Return to Public Office
In my opinion, former Governor Yahaya Bello (FGYB) should not be entrusted with another political office.
Throughout his time in power, many of his public statements were perceived by many people as intimidating because they came from someone who held enormous political authority. Statements such as “Irachen” (fire for fire) and other remarks were widely seen as confrontational and did little to promote peace and unity among the Ebira people.
Beyond the Reference Hospital and the establishment of the state university in Kogi Central, many citizens continue to ask: what other landmark projects directly benefited the people? Several projects executed during that period were supported by development partners such as the World Bank through programmes like NEWMAP. Many also question how many new primary and secondary schools were built during his administration.
In contrast, many projects executed during the administration of Alhaji Adamu Atta remain visible and are still appreciated by the public today.
It is also unfortunate that many local government staff quarters built by previous administrations have reportedly been converted to private use instead of serving their original purpose.
Today, Okene Local Government Area already occupies numerous key political and government positions, including:
– Former Governor Yahaya Bello – Ehebe Clan
– Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo – Akuta Clan
– Alhaji Gamji – Ehebe Clan
– Chief of Staff – Ehebe Clan
– Chairman, Okene LGA – Ehebe Clan
– Controller, Forest Guard – Ehebe Clan
– Education Secretary, Okene – Ehebe Clan
– Rector, Kogi State Polytechnic – Akuta Clan
– State APC Chairman – Ehebe Clan
– Okene APC Chairman – Ehebe Clan
– Six APC Ward Chairmen in Okene – mostly Akuta Clan
– Ohi of Okene – Akuta Clan
– Ohi of Okengwe – Akuta Clan
– Special Adviser on Domestic Affairs – Akuta Clan
With this level of representation, many believe it is time for power and opportunities to be more fairly distributed across Kogi Central.
Former Governor Yahaya Bello denied Senator Oseni a second term opportunity. TAO also did not return for another term. Today, Senators Echocho and Karimi are reportedly determined not to step aside. Meanwhile, within the APC, many members believe Chief Momoh Yusuf Obaro should be given the opportunity to contest for the Senate.
The emergence of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from the opposition has demonstrated that political dominance is not permanent. Healthy political competition should be encouraged.
Those who support Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo should continue to rally behind him as Governor, while those who support Chief Momoh Yusuf Obaro should be free to mobilize for his senatorial aspiration within the APC.
Finally, we appreciate the people of Okehi for what many see as their contribution to expanding political inclusion for other local government areas, including Adavi, Ajaokuta, and Ogori-Magongo.
Our collective desire is for peace, justice, fairness, and unity. Political competition should never result in violence or bloodshed. Let us continue to pray for peaceful politics and democratic progress across Kogi Central.
By:
Daudu Alh. Abdullahi Onogo
Director of Publicity
Ebiras Peace Project