Opinion
Yahaya Bello’s Homecoming Through His People’s Eyes
By Paul Efanga,Abuja
The detention and release of the former Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello over alleged financial impropriety , has been a subject of discussion in the public space.
Besides , the heavy reception accorded him on his return goes to show that the former Governor is still popular amongst his people. This according to the people is a measure of his acceptance and political relevance in the confluence state .
When asked what the political relevance of the former governor is …. political stalwart Amos Omajale, said ” the former governor is now more relevant politically then he was previously. Omajale stated ” GYB is a courageous man, who has no failure in his dictionary.
“On the day of his return from Kuje , country men and women across the divide were waiting by the road sides from all angles in Okene as early as 8 am, to catch a glimpse of the Yahaya Bello they described as a hero and the father of modern politics in Kogi state. A very courageous leader who has no failure in his dictionary”.
In a display of solidarity , citizens of Kogi State, led by Governor Usman Ododo, jubilated following the return of GYB from Kuje Correctional Facility. The reception was a carnival with cheering crowds, mostly politicians celebrating the ‘triumphant’ homecoming of a man whose tenure left the state on a mission to greatness and solid Development.
GYB had scored first in so many sectors of the economy. The first ever flyover in the state was built by him and the first governor to to establish two functional universities in a record time of less than four years. This has not happened anywhere in Nigeria. The GYP model secondary schools across the three Senatorial districts of the state is another feat achieved by the former Governor.
In order to stop medical tourism in Kogi state and Nigeria as a whole, the former Governor built a state of the art hospital, that can compete favourable with any other one across the globe.
Governor Usman Ododo described his predecessor as a quintessential leader of men and women and a pathfinder who lifted children of the less privileged to prominence and led the state to a prosperous pedestal in the eight years of his administration.
In his goodwill message of to the former Governor on his 49th birthday, Governor Ododo commended him for his exemplary leadership and extraordinary vision that led to the transformation of the state to an enviable height on which the current administration is consolidating to sustain the legacies of a worthy leader.
Ododo stated : “On the occasion of the 49th birthday of my leader and mentor, I am filled with gratitude for the courage you exemplified, the sacrifices you made for us to be where we are today and the legacies you bequeathed on our state and our people.
“I wish you many more years in good health and prosperity as you will be surrounded by your children and the children of many people whose lives you have transformed as you celebrate the anniversary of your birthday”.
No doubt, the Ex-Governor Bello while receiving rousing welcome from kinsmen, calls for unity, support for President Tinubu
Lokoja, the Kogi State Capital, Kogi Central Senatorial District and beyond stood still as residents trooped out en masse to welcome the immediate past Governor of the state, who was home for the yuletide celebrations.
Koton-karfe/Lokoja road was literally under siege as supporters, kinsmen and well wishers stormed the roads to join the former governor’s convoy amid cheers.
It took the former governor about six hours to finally access the palace of the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, His Royal Majesty Tijani Ahmed Anaje.
Ex-Governor Bello was granted bail on December 19, 2024 and released after meeting his bail conditions in the alleged money laundering case instituted against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Kinsmen and supporters, who had been waiting for the big entry of former governor and the incumbent governor, stormed the streets, chanting solidarity songs and praying for the continuous upliftment of the state under the new administration.
Many of those who spoke at the events , praised Bello and assured him that their prayers were with them. They also thanked him for giving them a governor like Ododo as his successor.
They said, they had been waiting since 9am to welcome home their son, whom they said opened Kogi up for meaningful developments.
The former Governor, accompanied by Ododo and other past and present political office holders first made a stop at the resting place of his late mother for a special prayer for the departed.
Speaking at the palace of the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, in Okene, Yahaya Bello, called for unity among the people of the state, assuring that the current administration, led by Ododo, would deliver more dividends of democracy to all parts of the state.
Bello also sought the support and prayers of Nigerians for the President Bola Tinubu administration.
He urged citizens to exercise patience and pray specially for the President to be able to continue executing his laudable plans and programmes for the country, saying that, in the end, Nigeria and Nigerians would be better for it.
The former governor expressed strong confidence in the policies of the current administration to take the country to the promised land.
Addressing the mammoth crowd, the Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, said former Governor Yahaya Bello had laid a solid foundation for the sustainable growth and development of the state.
Ododo pointed out that the ability of the Yahaya Bello administration to reform the state’s Civil Service and institute a productive workforce was a solid foundation on which the current administration is thriving.
According to Governor Ododo, the prompt payment of salaries by his administration is the outcome of the efforts and foresight of the Yahaya Bello administration.
“I attribute the ability of my administration to pay prompt salaries at both state and local government levels to the solid foundation for resource and economic development put in place by the administration of my predecessor, Yahaya Bello.
“The success of my administration today was borne out of the commitment and good foundations laid down by my immediate predecessor and the support and encouragement he often gives to us.
“For us to succeed, we need the support of our people because I am ready to serve you and I will continue to do my best to unite the people of the state,”Ododo said.
The Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, Dr Tijani Ahmed Anaje in his remarks, charged the people of Ebiraland at home and in diaspora to embrace peace, speak with one voice and prioritise the interest of Ebiraland over any personal interest.
The Royal Father, who offered prayers for Ebiraland and Kogi State in general, solicited support for Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo to enable him achieve more developments for the state.
In his speech, the Chairman, Kogi State Chapter of the All Progressive Congress, Hon. Abdullahi Bello, described former Governor Bello as the one who had laid a solid foundation for the state in the area of infrastructure and human capital development.
He assured that, based on the activities of the Governor Ododo-led administration, Year 2025 would usher in peace, unity and development to Kogi State.
Speaking also, Otunba Irikiti James Ogah, described Yahaya Bello, “The Political Maestro Of Our Generation.
“As a people, we owe him an everlasting thank-you for daring the unthinkable, changing the narrative for good and paying the huge price against all odds.
“Available statistics have it that Yahaya Bello’s eight years administration as the governor of Kogi State was greeted with huge human Capital developments and monumental state of the art projects that have direct impact on the people of the state.
“These achievements, according to records, made GYB one of the best governors to ever serve the state.
“Today, the travail of the former governor, has made him even more acceptable even by his hitherto enemies. This recent happenings has clearly shown that former Governor Yahaya Bello is now more relevant in the Nigeria political space more than ever before. As the situation unfolds, the fighting spirit of Yahaya Bello will become more visible.
Paul Efanga wrote from Abuja
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