Opinion
That Prince Audu Abubakar’s Son, Enemona
By Onoja Integrity
Although this piece is primarily intended for the people of Kogi State, especially Kogi Easterners, I cannot foresee who else may come across it. For the benefit of those who do not understand Igala, the name Enemona simply means “Who Knows Tomorrow?” Just as the Igbos would say “Onyemaechi.”
The late great Prince Abubakar Audu, a former governor of Kogi State and yet-to-declared governor-elect before his sudden passing, was the father of politics in Kogi State. Even when he was out of office, he remained the dominant force in the state’s political landscape. He was not just a leader but a symbol of Igala political relevance at the national level.
It is perhaps because Audu understood the uncertainty of tomorrow that he named one of his sons, Prince Mustapha Mona Audu, Enemona. Today, Mona is seen as the true replica of his father, emerging as the face of Kogi Easterners, particularly the Igalas, in national politics.
For as long as he has lived, Mona has been deeply invested in the progress of Kogi State, especially Igala land. After all, charity begins at home.
Pause for a moment. Take a deep breath. Now, let me take you through what I know and what many may not yet realize about Mona Audu—his past, his present, and what his journey means for Kogi State, particularly for the Igala people.
My first encounter with Mona was during the buildup to the 2019 Kogi gubernatorial election. After assessing all the candidates, I aligned myself with Mona. This decision was not only based on my political analysis but also on my late father’s deep involvement with the Audu-led ANPP. I still recall how my father plastered our community with Audu’s campaign posters, and his campaign wrappers remained some of his favorite clothing. These memories shaped my perception of Mona.
However, my support for Mona wasn’t merely sentimental. He had built his own reputation beyond his father’s legacy. Mona had carved out a name for himself in politics, humanitarian work, and social influence. His impact was undeniable.
I joined Mona’s media team, working tirelessly until internal party politics forced us out of the gubernatorial race. Yet, through this experience, I gained invaluable insight into Mona’s political philosophy, leadership approach, and character.
Mona belongs to the category of refined and intelligent politicians—leaders with vision and competence. Unfortunately, in Nigerian politics, particularly in Kogi East, intelligence, exposure, and technical expertise do not always translate to electoral success.
In Kogi East, coming into politics with polished language, economic strategies, and leadership credentials often amounts to wasting time. No matter how successful you have been in business or leadership, the deciding factors are often the muscles of street enforcers, the weight of money bags, and the readiness to embrace political chaos.
This is why seasoned professionals like Dr. Victor Alewo Adoji, Elder Adejo Okedi, Dr. Sam Omale, Idoko Kingsley Illona, Mona himself and their ilk are not at the forefront of Igala political leadership. These are men who have excelled at international levels, leading and consulting for global organizations. Yet, despite their global influence, their home region remains difficult to reform.
Despite his struggles in politics, one thing remains clear: Mona does not believe in politics of violence or chaos. He is a gentleman in politics—one who values peace over power. Unfortunately, this very principle has been used against him in the past.
But what shall it profit a man to win an election at the expense of people’s lives? Mona’s approach to politics reflects his selfless intentions. Many may not understand it now, but Enemona—who knows tomorrow? Time will reveal his true impact.
Fast-forward to 2023, when Mona contested for the Idah Federal Constituency seat at the National Assembly. I recall how we received intelligence about thugs being mobilized in Ofu Local Government to disrupt the process. When Mona was briefed, he simply waved it off, insisting that he did not believe in winning through violence.
Leading up to the primaries, Mona was aware of every tactic his opponents were deploying. Yet, he chose the path of peace. Even when he was harassed at the primary election while engaging with his people, he remained calm.
We all remember how his vehicle was burned during this period. But let me remind you: Mona is not a weakling. He is Prince Audu’s son—a lion cannot give birth to a goat. However, as a true statesman, he prioritizes peace over political gains.
Even before these election attempts and up to this moment, Mona remains a vital player in national politics, working tirelessly to ensure that the Igala people are not forgotten. After Audu’s passing, the Igalas lost their most significant voice at the national level. Mona is striving to fill that gap.
In 2021, he led an APC faction—the Progressives Youth Movement—to Kaduna, where they passed a vote of no confidence in the Governor Mai Mala Buni-led Caretaker Committee. As I traveled with him from Abuja to Kaduna that day, I saw a reflection of the late Prince Audu in him. It was clear that the Igala people once again had a voice.
Today, through Mona’s influence and support, his wife, Princess Zahrah Mustapha Audu, now serves as the Director General of the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC). This is a win for Kogi State and the Igala people.
I remember when news of Mona’s wife’s appointment broke. After sharing it on several Kogi political WhatsApp platforms, I saw people, especially the Igalas, celebrating. While they expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the appointment, they also urged him to continue remembering the region, emphasizing their trust in Mona—the replica son of his late friend, Prince Audu.
We are glad the Princess has exceeded expectations in just a few days in office. No surprise, she is leveraging her extensive experience as an entrepreneur and technology specialist. With a background in software engineering and business management from a top UK institution, she has successfully founded and scaled businesses for over a decade. A strategic thinker and dynamic leader, she is known for turning visionary ideas into actionable strategies, driving sustainable growth, attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), and improving global quality of life.
At a time when Igala representation in the current government is almost nonexistent, this achievement stands as a testament to Mona’s political relevance. If Audu were alive, we can only imagine the weight of his influence in the APC, especially under the Tinubu administration.
Mona and his wife continue to stand tall for Kogi State, especially for the Igala people. This is the tomorrow that late Prince Audu envisioned when he named his son Enemona.
That tomorrow is unfolding before our eyes. And while Mona is yet to be elected into a leadership position capable of transforming Kogi East, the journey has already begun.
Let every son and daughter of Ane Ayegba Oma Idoko know this: Audu has left us a comforter, and his name is Enemona—shortened as Mona.
The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio on Saturday said the Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who was suspended by the Senate for six months, traumatised him and others.
Akpabio had come under heavy criticism following the sanction handed out to the lawmaker.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, cautioned the Senate against making the political atmosphere toxic for women.
Major opposition parties in the country have also expressed outrage over the manner in which the complaint was handled.
But Akpabio maintained his innocence, saying none of what she alleged was true.
Speaking at an event to commemorate International Women’s Day, Akpabio raised concerns that he was merely her latest victim, saying previous allegations by Natasha had turned out to be false.
He said, ‘’It is only yesterday that I realised that what we are talking about only happened when there was a change of seat. That is when hell was let loose, and all sorts of allegations came up, only after the change of seat and change of committee, which my Senators know to happen from time to time.
“This is said to have happened on December 8, a day before my birthday, which was celebrated in the Stadium in 2023. So from the 8th of December 2023, I never heard, my wife never heard, no Nigerian ever heard, even the husband never heard any issue of sexual harassment until her committee was changed and then her seat was changed.
“Have you ever wondered about the trauma caused by that same woman on the other people she has accused in the past? None has been proven so far. Do you even wonder about the trauma this caused to the 10th Senate and the image of the Senate with all these useless allegations? I have refrained myself from making a statement.
“Look at these beautiful women. They have come across me so many times. Have I ever harassed any one of you? Or is the person thinking that you are not beautiful?”
By Abdullahi O Haruna Haruspice
The appointment of Dr. Fashagba Femi Paul as the Provost of Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa, is a masterstroke in academic leadership. With an impressive track record in academia, administration, and professional excellence, he is undoubtedly the right person to lead the institution into a new era of transformation. His wealth of experience and outstanding credentials make him well-suited for the task ahead, one that requires vision, strategic planning, and a relentless commitment to excellence.
Dr. Fashagba’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. Having served as the Director of the Academic Planning Unit at the Federal Polytechnic, Bida, he demonstrated exceptional administrative acumen, successfully leading the accreditation and reaccreditation of over thirty academic programs—an achievement unmatched in the history of the institution. His tenure as Dean of Students’ Affairs further highlighted his ability to foster a student-friendly academic environment while ensuring discipline and quality education. In addition to his administrative competence, Dr. Fashagba is a well-respected scholar, researcher, and mentor, with numerous academic publications and conference presentations to his name. As a Fellow of the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN) and a distinguished member of the Chartered Institute of Finance and Control of Nigeria (CIFCN), he embodies the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.
Now at the helm of Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa, Dr. Fashagba must harness his expertise to drive meaningful reforms. The institution, like many teacher-training colleges in Nigeria, requires structural, academic, and administrative revitalization to remain competitive. One of the key areas of focus should be academic excellence and accreditation. Strengthening the college’s accreditation status by ensuring that all programs meet national and global standards is essential. A research-driven environment must be fostered, encouraging both lecturers and students to engage in innovative academic work. Additionally, modern pedagogical tools must be introduced to align with contemporary teacher education.
Beyond academics, institutional development and infrastructure must be prioritized. Improving physical facilities, including classrooms, hostels, and ICT centers, will significantly enhance the learning environment. Seeking partnerships with government and private sector stakeholders to attract funding and grants should also be a focal point. Establishing a robust e-learning system to complement conventional learning methods will further modernize the institution and expand its reach.
To build a well-rounded institution, the welfare of students and staff must also be taken into account. Policies that ensure a conducive learning and teaching environment should be implemented, while continuous professional development programs must be introduced for lecturers to keep them updated on modern teaching methodologies. Encouraging student participation in leadership, entrepreneurship, and community service programs will also help in shaping well-rounded graduates who are equipped to make meaningful contributions to society.
As an astute accountant, Dr. Fashagba is well-positioned to enhance financial management and transparency within the college. Prudent financial practices, revenue-generating initiatives, and reduced reliance on government subventions will be key to ensuring the financial stability of the institution. At the same time, fostering strong ties between the college and the local community will be instrumental in driving mutual growth. Building strategic alliances with education-based NGOs, international bodies, and government agencies will further enhance institutional development and open up new opportunities for students and faculty members.
The appointment of Dr. Fashagba Femi Paul is not just another administrative change—it is a call to action. The weight of expectation is enormous, and the demand for impact is immediate. As he takes over the reins, he must bring on board the right strategies, policies, and personnel to reposition the college for greatness. The people of Kogi State, the academic community, and the students of Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa, look forward to a progressive, transformative, and prosperous tenure. With his sterling credentials, vast experience, and stoic commitment to education, there is no doubt that Dr. Fashagba will leave an indelible mark on the institution. Now is the time to deliver, and the future starts today.
Perfectly musing
BY Musa Ilallah
For the people of Hadejia emirate in the present jigawa state, their hope and optimism remains high now more than ever before that their 42 year old struggle to get a state of their own will soon see the light of the day. The movement had so far submitted a request for the creation of Hadejia state in 1982, 1991, 1994, 1996, 2009, and 2021.
This optimism beams its light and hinges its hope for 2 reasons.
First came the opener when the Jigawa North East Senator, Ambassador Ahmad Abdulhamid Malam Madori on the 25th day of February 2025 sponsored a bill for an act to create Hadejia state out of Jigawa state on the floor of the senate.
The bill, which sought to alter the Constitution of the federal Republic of Nigeria1999 (Cap.C23), is presently awaiting further legislative action.
Second, the House of Representatives committee on the review of the 1999 constitution opened it’s door wide open and allowed all interested applicant seeking new states to be created in their domains to submit their request on or before the 16th of March, 2025.
Taking this opportunity with all the seriousness it deserves, the steering committee led by a former Commissioner in the old Kano state, Alhaji Musa Shuaibu had an interaction with the Chairman of the national Constitution review Committee and also the Deputy Senate President, Distinguished Barau I. Jibrin, to press home the demand for the creation of Hadejia state and thereafter solicits his support for the noble cause.
Consequently, the Chair of the movement for the creation.of Hadejia state, Musa Shuaibu was at the National Assembly on Tuesday March 4th 2025 where he formally presented the demand.
Accompanied by Senator Malam Madori, 2 of the 3 members of the House of Representatives from the area, some members of the state House of assembly and some representatives of LGCs.
Also present were the Representatives of the State Governor, Naannabi Ahmad, Falakin Hadejia and Chairman of the state Civil service commission; Emir of Hadejia’s Representative and Galadiman Hadejia, Usman Abdulaziz, Representatives of 8 local government councils, representatives of State assembly members; members of the house of representatives, Dr Abubakar Fulata and Makki Yanleman; prominent sons and daughters and also some members of the steering committee of the movement led by elder Dr (Arch) Aminu Kano
According to Musa Shuaibu, in addition to the present 8 local government areas that make up the proposed state, the area has presently submitted request to expand the LGAs to more than 12. The present Senatorial zone has Hadejia, Kafin Hausa, Auyo, Kaugama, Malam Madori, Guri, Birniwa and Kiri Kasamna LGAs.
Some of the potentials that seem to work in favour of the demand for Hadejia state include an approximately 700, 000 hectares of total landmass of which 75% is arable for all year round farming.
Others include the economic viability, active and enterprising human resource, utilities and infrastructure, electricity via a 132 KVA, potable water, ethanol renewable energy resource, forests and wildlife. Others include industry and commerce, tourism and rich cultural heritage among others.
Formally receiving the request for the creation of Hadejia state, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt Honourable Tajuddeen Abbas in his office, stated that he is 100% in support of the movement and gave an unflinching committment to get the aspiration through.
At the Senate, the Clerk to the Senate committee on the review of the 1999 Constitution, Innocent Mobere received the memorandum on behalf of the chairman and also promised to present the request to the whole house committee.
Meanwhile, Senator Ambassador Ahmad Malam Madori also during a 2day public hearing organised by the Senate committee on health on a bill to consider the creation of a Federal Medical Centre , Hadejia, had appealed to all and sundry to make the proposal a reality.
All eyes are.now on deck to see how fast the National Assembly will fast track the creation of more states and LGCs in the country for its growth and development.
Musa Ilallah, a public affairs analyst based in Abuja. He can be reached at musahk123@yahoo.com