Ex-Governor Bello triumphantly enters Kogi, calls for unity among ethnic groups
IDRIS AHMED, Lokoja
Former Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, on Tuesday triumphantly entered Kogi State as he was received by thousands of jubilant supporters of All Progressives Congress (APC) and residents after he was granted bail by the FCT High Court, Abuja.
The mammoth crowd milled at the Murtala Muhammed bridge, Jamata, near Koton-Karfe as early as 8 am to welcome the former Governor.who was accompanied by the incumbent Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo and top political and government officials.
After the bridge head ceremony which included exchange of pleasantries, singing and dances, the long convoy led by Governor Ododo, moved to Lokoja en route Okene the ex Governor’s country home.
In Lokoja, multitude of residents trooped out lining the streets chanting “White Lion” and dancing iñ solidarity with the former Governor who is alleged to under investigation.Some prayed for the God’s protection of the former Governor.
The tumultuous reception was the same all the way from Lokoja to Okene where the ancient town stood still for Yahaya Bello, the man considered as the “Liberator” of the modern Kogi state.
While in Okene the convoy headed straight to the Palace of the Ohinoyi of Ebira land where already thousands of the residents had already converged to receive their son.
Addressing the crowd, the former Kogi Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, called for unity of purpose that will pave way for peace, economic and infrastructural development of the state.
Bello who was in company of the incumbent Governor of the State, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, and other dignitaries , stated that a viable foundation has been laid down for successive administration to move the State forward.
While expressing joy for the love and solidarity accorded him by the people of the State, urged them to remain steadfast and united, noting that without unity among the diverse ethnic groups in the State nothing positive can be achieved.
He appealed to the people of the state to rally support for Governor Ododo, assuring that the current administration in Kogi State will deliver more dividend of democracy to all parts of the state.
Bello who also drum support and prayers from Nigerians for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to succeed in executing his laudable plans and programmes for the country, expressed confidence that the policies of the federal government will definitely lead the country to the glorious era.
He urged Nigerians to exercise patient with President Tinubu’s government to enable him tackle the challenges inherited that are affecting the progress and development of the country.
In his address to the mammoth crowd, the incumbent Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo , eulogized the former Governor Yahaya Bello for laying the solid foundation of good governance
Ododo noted with satisfaction the progress recorded in the state civil service, which enabled his administration to pay salaries promptly to both the state and local government workers.
“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 give us.
“For us to succeed we need the prayer and support of our people, because I am ready to serve you and I will continue to do my best to unify the people of the state even if it requires prostrating for my people” Gov. Ododo said.
The Ohinoyi of Ebiraland , Dr Tijani Ahmed Anaje in his remarks charged Ebira people both at home and in diaspora to embrace peace, speak with one voice and prioritize Ebira interest over and above any personal interest.
The Royal Father who was visibly delighted offered prayers for Ebiraland and Kogi state in general , solicited support for Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo to enable him achieve more development for the state.
In his speech, the Chairman Kogi State Chapter of the All Progressive Congress APC, Hon. Abdullahi Bello described former Governor Bello as the chosen one who has laid a solid foundation for the state in the area of infrastructure and human capital development.
He assured that based on the activities of Governor Ododo led administration, 2025 will usher in peace, unity and development to Kogi State.
Highlight of the occasion was special prayers offers by the Chief Imam of Ebiraland Sheik Salihu Abere, Pastor Ejuwon John and Chief Mariba Amos who prayed in a traditional way.
