By Kehinde Erin
Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has praised his predecessor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, describing him as a remarkable leader and mentor.
He noted that Bello’s tenure laid a strong foundation for inclusive development and people-centered governance in the state.
He made the remarks on Tuesday at a stakeholders’ meeting in Idozumi, Okene Local Government Area, where he was warmly welcomed by local leaders and residents.
The Governor pledged to sustain the legacy of his predecessor, describing himself as a proud follower of Yahaya Bello’s political ideology, which prioritises service, equity, and collective progress for the people of Kogi State.
“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
The Governor praised his predecessor for his selfless service and for empowering individuals from humble backgrounds to take on leadership roles. He noted that many of these leaders are now driving positive change in their communities across the state.
He called on the people of Kogi State to remain supportive of the former Governor and his family, offering their continued prayers for their well-being. He also expressed gratitude to the residents of Bariki Ward for their unity and unwavering support for his administration.
Emphasising the importance of unity, Governor Ododo, called on community leaders to bridge their divides and work collectively toward the progress and peaceful coexistence of Bariki Ward and Kogi State as a whole.
Hon. Halidu Abdullahi, Special Adviser on Grassroots Mobilization, speaking on behalf of political appointees from the area, praised Governor Ododo for his compassionate leadership and inclusive governance style.
He expressed confidence that Bariki Ward would continue to rally behind the Governor’s initiatives, highlighting that stakeholders from all corners of the ward, across its four segments and 43 polling units, are enthusiastic about the Governor’s plans to drive progress in Kogi State.
