By Abubakar Yunusa
The Forum of Igala Journalists (FORIJA) has called on the Honourable Minister of Steel Development,Prince Shaibu Audu, to use his platform to speak out against the injustice and oppression taking place in Kogi State.
Omonu YG Nelson, Secretary-General of the forum, made the call in a statement on behalf of the forum, stating, “You have a voice, and you have a responsibility to use it to defend the rights of the Igala people.”
“We also urge you to utilize your platform to denounce the injustice and oppression occurring in Kogi State.”
Omonu explained that the people of Kogi State deserve better than Bello’s right-hand man, Ododo. They deserve a leader who is honest, competent, and committed to their well-being.
“We urge you to do the right thing and support a candidate who will truly represent the interests of the Igala people.”
The statement further reads: “I am writing to express our deep disappointment in your decision to lead the All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign for the November 11 governorship election in Kogi State.
“Your father, Prince Audu Abubakar, was a beloved and respected leader of the Igala people and Kogi State at large. He was known for his integrity, commitment to good governance, and love for his people.
“We believe that your decision to support Governor Yahaya Bello’s proxy third-term bid is a betrayal of your father’s legacy and the goodwill he earned for your family.
“Bello has been a disastrous leader for Kogi State. He has presided over a corrupt, incompetent, and repressive government. He has failed to deliver on any of your father’s campaign promises and has plunged the state into debt.
“Under Bello’s rule, the Igala people have suffered greatly. The state’s economy is in shambles, and many Kogites are struggling to make ends meet. There is no security, and the state is plagued by man-made violence and crime.
“We urge you to reconsider your decision and withdraw your support for Bello’s stooge, Usman Ahmed Ododo. You owe it to your father and to the Igala people to stand up against Bello’s inhumanity to man.”