By Yekini Jimoh
Kogi State Governor Alhaji Ahmed Ododo on Friday, February 28 was on a one-day working visit to Yagba West Local Council. The visit was to enable him to interact with traditional rulers and people of the LGA and also to commission flagship projects of his administration in the area. Yekini Jimoh writes.
Beyond Yagba West, the governor’s visit was a very memorable occasion to the entire Yagba people as the state’s number one citizen also had a stopover in Isanlu, Yagba East Local Government headquarters to honour and appreciate his friend and Member, House of Representatives for Yagba Federal Constituency, Hon Leke Abejide, where he flagged off a road project initiated by Abejide before returning to Lokoja.
These two occasions have since generated sufficient enthusiasm and excitement among Yagba people.
Egbe/Yagba West
For a myriad reasons, the Ododo’s February 28 visit couldn’t have come at a better time. For the people of Egbe, the commercial nerve centre of Yagba West, Ododo’s visit was significant as it brought back the memories and excitement of welcoming the governor of the state in their midst after a period spanning 10 years. The last time was in 2015 by the erstwhile Governor Idris Wada.
Egbe is a town bordering Kogi and Kwara States and serves as a central location to access other communities in the LGA. It is one of the biggest towns in Kogi State (after Lokoja, the state capital, Okene, Anyigba and Kabba) with long history of commercial activities where people come from far and near for trading purposes. Egbe also hosts famous health and educational institutions such as the ECWA Hospital, ECWA College of Nursing and Sciences and Midwifery and the prestigious Titcombe College. The Egbe Air Strip under refurbishment, the Military Forward Operating Base, the first of it’s kind in the North Central region, as well as the ational Open University (NOUN) Study Centre, are the new additions to notable public and private instiitutions that make Egbe Community to stand out.
Indigenous Egbe sons and daughters who have occupied top leadership positions in Nigeria’s history include late scholar and diplomat, Chief Olayinka Simoyan, who was Nigeria’s Charge D’affaires to Austria and Republic of Dahomey and Second Republic Senator Justus Bode Olu. Currently, the sitting Senator representing Kogi West, Sunday Karimi, Executive Director/CEO, National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Dr Muyi Aina, ex-Vice-Chairman/CEO, Federal Competition and Consumers Protection Commission (FCCPC), Mr Tunde Irukera, Managing Director/CEO, FirstTrust Mortgage Bank Plc, Mr Korede Adedayo, ex-Nigerian Envoy to Sri-Lanka and President-General of the umbrella sociocultural organisation of the Yoruba speaking people in Kogi State, Okun Development Association (ODA), Ambassador Akenson Rotimi and Chairman, construction giants, GODAB Nigeria Limited, among others hail from Egbe.
Yagba West, by extension boasts of no less influential Nigerians such as erstwhile Minister of Industry and ex-President, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Chief Kola Jamodu, highbrow Lagos-based Management Consultant, Asiwaju Funsho Owoyemi and formee member of the House of Representatives, Hon Samuel Bamidele Aro.
From the pre-Second and third Republics military era, the people of Egbe were used to physical engagement with governors of the old Kwara State: the memories of state visits by Col Ibrahim Taiwo, Col David Bamigboye, Brigadier-General George Agbazika Innih and Group Captain Adebola Latinwo, all late will forever linger on the minds of Egbe people still alive. Third Republic civilian Governor of Kwara State, Alhaji Adamu Atta, came calling. During his shortlived first tenure as the first civilian governor of the newly created Kogi State, Alhaji Abubakar Audu not only came to flag-off the construction of Egbe Township roads, he brought the Kogi Radio FM Station, Egbe, upgraded the Elegbe of Egbe stool to First Class status. Audu literally made Egbe his second home. That didn’t change during his return as governor during between (1999 to 2003). Audu’s successor, Alhaji Ibrahim Idris came calling. Aside rehabilitating Egbe Township roads, Idris (also known as Ibro) upgraded the ECWA midwifery nursing school to an accredited College of Nursing. He also donated a coastal to the school. His successor, Captain Idris Wada followed in Ibro’s footsteps. In 2015, Wada commissioned ECWA Hospital Revitalization project and facilitated the employment of medical staff placed on government ‘s pay role. Wada also constructed four kilometres Township roads in Egbe.
But that was the last time Egbe people interfaced with their governor.
Ododi’s visit was coming nine years after the area was rendered virtually orphaned by a Governor Yahaya Bello, who never visited and never had an idea of the experiences and travails of Yagba People, Yagba West especially.
Conversely, in his only one year on the saddle, Governor Ododo didn’t just come calling; he was in Egbe to commission the Township roads which his administration constructed with asphalt outlay. He completed the project within six months.
Prior to his visit, Ododo’s popularity had risen amongst the Kogi populace, especially the state and local government civil servants who now are amongst the highest paid in the country in terms of minimum wage in salaries. Workers and retirees also receive their monthly salaries and pensions on or before 25th day of the month. Governor Ododo made a giant stride in revolutionising the states infrastructures by approving the construction of eight township roads across the three senatorial districts. The affected roads and their locations include Egbe township road in Yagba West LGA, Idah township road in Idah LGA, Abejukolo township road in Omala LGA, Aiyetoro township road in Ijumu LGA, and Felele-Agbaja Road in Lokoja Local Government.
Additionally, Oguma township road in Bassa LGA, Anyigba township road in Dekina LGA, and Mopa township road in Mopamuro LGA were part of the approved projects.
These achievements resonated with the multitude of appreciative locals who trooped in their hundreds Egbe Central Palace to welcome the “People’s Governor”.
All the way, the crowd, mostly women, chanted the slogan “people’s governor” as they sang in Yoruba the song “O ti mu wa gbagbe, Ijoba Igbakan”, translated “you made us forget there was a government (that failed us)”.
The visitors, once seated in the sprawling Palace of the Elegbe of Egbe, Oba Ayodele Irukera, the atmosphere in the commodious Elegbe office complex was electric.
Oba Irukera who is Chairman, Yagba West Traditional Council was joined by other traditional rulers in Yagba West, son-of-the-soil, Kogi West’s Senator Sunday Karimi, Member, Kogi State House of Assembly (Yagba West Constituency) Hon Ibikunle Idowu, Yagba West Council Chairman, Hon Tosin Olokun and other stakeholders. The hosts stopped at nothing to openly show their appreciation for the governor’s visit and what they they termed as his good work in the community, Yagbaland, Kogi West and the state as whole.
Oba Irukera, in his welcoming address read by his second in command, Oba Abiodun Agbana, the Baale of Egbe, expressed the heartfelt gratitude of the community to the governor for the “transformational project of the reconstruction of Egbe Township roads” which, according to him, has not only enhanced the movement of services, goods and people but also added beauty to the metropolis. He enthused that the governor has “etched his name in gold in our hearts as the intervention came at a time we are yearning for such project”.
Oba Irukera described Governor Ododo’s visit as “memorable” and coming with the opportunity to express his people’s gratitude for his leadership capacity and capability he has demonstrated since assuming office as governor about 14 months ago.
He listed recent developmental strides witnessed in the community to include the 94-bed Military Forward Base (FOB), built by Senator Sunday Karimi, Egbe Hospital revitalization project, championed by the Florida, United States based Egbe Medical Mission and the Egbe Airstrip refurbishment by another US based Mission, Health, Education and Literacy Providers (HELP Africa), among others.
Like oliver twist, the monarch drew the attention of the visitor to the major road which leads to Egbe Central Market, the Airstrip, General Hospital and the Kogi F.M Radio station, which were not captured in the rehabilitation works for commissioning. Similarly, he pointed to the moribund Egbe Waterworks built by the community in the early 1970s and taken over by the state government in 1975, and lamented that the dam which used to serve as the major source of water supply to the residents “had long been neglected leaving Egbe Community with no water supply from our dam”.
One other area of concern tabled by the Elegbe is the abandoned 132kv transmission station, a federal government funded project expected to ameliorate power supply situation in the region and was about 85 percent completed before it was abandoned. He therefore pleaded with the governor to use his good offices to liase with the Federal Government to ensure speedy completion and commission of the project.
Higlight of the event at the Elegbe’s was the conferment of the chieftaincy title of Gbadero of Egbeland on Governor Ododo, which threw the room into the ecstasy of chants of “Oloye, Oloye, Oloye!”
*Why Yagba West Was Agog Over Ododo’s Visit by Senator Karimi*
The people of Yagba West and by extension, Yagba Federal Constituency will remember not to forget Friday, February 28, 2025 in hurry as they played host to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo who was on a one day working visit to Yagba West Local Government.
Onn ground to welcome the Governor at Egbe, the commercial nerve centre of Yagba West Council where the governor commisioned some projects was the Senator representing Kogi West, Sunday Karimi, an indigene of Egbe.
Speaking at the palace of the Elegbe of Egbe, Oba Ayodele Irukera, Senator Karimi described the visit of the Governor, barely a year in office as a testament to the fact that he is a promise keeper and indeed a people’s Governor who is ready to connect with the people at the grassroot “for qualitative, responsive and responsible governance”.
Karimi enthused that Ododo’s visit was the first of it’s kind in nine years by a Governor to the historic town of Egbe and Yagba West LGA.
He commended Governor Ododo for his landmark impacts in Yagba West, Yagba Federal Constituency, Kogi West and Kogi State at large, especially the ongoing road constructions in many parts of the State, one of those that was commissioned in Egbe during the visit on Friday.
He further called on the attention of the governor to the security challenges in Kogi West which has received his investment in the building of a 98 Bed Army Forward Operation Base with state of the art facilities in Egbe and has since been handed over to the Nigerian Army. This project, he noted, has improved the security of lives and properties of the people of Kogi West and neighboring States.
Karimi said: “We cannot thank you enough; I want to say in the past nine years, you are the first governor to set your foot in this local government. It is a thing of honour to us. In fact I can remember the last time we spoke about you coming here, you said you would like to come and say thank you first before anything, that is humility. You are paying WAEC fees and other (education based) fees, workers salaries are being paid regularly and on time and we’ve seen infrastructural development going round all over the place. In fact, the first impact that we have of a governor in nine years is the fact that roads are being constructed all over our communities. And let me say that we had serious issues and factions in Egbe, but because of your coming, we have made huge efforts in resolving the crisis. The community is now getting united. We laid the foundation for unity yesterday; that is another (positive outcome) that your visit has made to happen. We said the governor cannot come and meet us disunited. So that problem has been laid to rest. We want to appreciate you for your coming and for all you are doing in our state. I want to say it loud and clear that you are doing well”.
In addition to Egbe Hospital currently undergoing revitalization and Egbe Airstrip under refurbishment, Karimi said the community is known for self-help projects, notably the central palace office complex completed by the community while the residential building of the Elegbe of Egbe is in progress.
In his remarks, a visibly elated Governor Ododo announced the acceptance of the chieftaincy title of Gbadero of Egbeland conferred on him and declared his membership of Egbe Traditional Council. He also thanked Egbe Traditional Council, the people, especially women, for the rousing reception and love shown him during the visit. He commended Senator Karimi for prioritizing security of the people in building the Army Forward Operation Base and providing operation logistics to officials including two brand new Hilux vehicles and for being a good ambassador of not only Kogi West but the entire State on the floor of the Red Chamber.
Ododo pledged to continue partnering with the Senator in all ways possible to see that the dividends of democracy are delivered to the people of Kogi West irrespective of sentiments. Th governor promised to look into the requests tabled before him by the Elegbe of Egbe. Specifically, he promised to direct the Commissioner for Water Resources to effect an assessment of the Egbe Waterworks with a view to resuscitating it.
The governor visited the Military Forward Operating Base and also commissioned the Kogi Sate Vigilante Service (KSVS) ‘Sector D’ Command headquarters, both at Egbe. The KSVS office was built by the Chairman of Yagba West local council, Hon Tosin Olokun. Ododo later visited Odo-Ere, Yagba West Local Government headquarters where he was received by ex-Industry Minister and Asiwaju of Ere Kingdom, Chief Kola Jamodu in his residence. Jamodu was joined by the Elere of Ere, Oba Richard Olusegun, other traditional rulers and stakeholders in Ere Kingdom. Ododo assured that township roads in the local government headquarters have been captured in the next round of road projects to be constructed by the state government.
Beyond the officialdom, the governor, smartly dressed in a long-sleeved shirt and fez cap, in a rare display of humility walked freely on the streets amongst the people, acknowledging cheers from the appreciative crowd. From
Egbe central mosque, Yeye Awe Street where he observed the Friday jummah prayers to Bareke, Egbe residence of Senator Karimi, where he and entourage had lunch, the state number one citizen appeared like an ordinary citizen. Not often do ordinary citizens come across such a governor.
On the governor’s entourage were: Kogi State APC Chairman, Abdullahi Bello; The Speaker Kogi State House of Assembly; The Secretary to The State Government, Mrs Folashade Arike Ayoade, Commissioner for Finance, Mukadam Asiwaju Idris Ashiru; Commissioner for Environment, Engr. Joseph Olusegun; Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Barrister Deedat Ozigi; Commissioner for Solid Minerals, Engr. Bashir Gegu; Commissioner for Ministry of Livestock Development, Dr Femi Bolarin and other top government functionaries.
*Characteristics of the “Chief Servant” by Kingsley Fanwo*
Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo recapped the inaugural speech of Governor Usman Ododo when he addressed his people with profound humility, a trait demonstrated during the governor’s one day working visit to Yagba West Council, last Friday.
He quoted Ododo as saying to Kogi people on January 27, 2024: “You are the bosses because you hired me with your votes to serve you. The hiree cannot be bigger than the hirer. I will listen to you, I will serve you.”
Fanwo expatiated: “Every word he spoke that day came from the depths of his heart. But beyond mere words, he has remained committed to translating them into action. It is no longer just a title—Nigerians now recognize him as the Chief Servant of his people. And he is truly serving. Service, at its core, requires listening. You cannot effectively lead without understanding the people you serve. You cannot assume you know their needs without engaging them. And you cannot be certain you are on the right track without their validation. Leadership demands courage—the courage to step into the lives of the people, feel their pulse, share in their challenges, and reassure them that they are not alone. It is this principle that continues to define the leadership of His Excellency, Alh. Ahmed Usman Ododo, the Chief Servant of Kogi State”.
“On February 28, 2025, the Chief Servant embarked on a working visit to Yagba Federal Constituency, reinforcing his commitment to grassroots governance. His first stop was in Yagba West, where he met with the Traditional Council at the Palace of the Elegbe of Egbe. There, he charged the royal fathers with the responsibility of ensuring continued peace and security in their domains, assuring them of his administration’s unwavering support.
“The Governor also visited the Forward Operating Base (FoB) of the Nigerian Army, a critical security infrastructure facilitated by Senator Sunday Karimi, who represents Kogi West. At the base, he engaged in a servant-to-servant dialogue with the officers and soldiers, recognizing their sacrifices in maintaining peace in Kogi West. After attentively listening to their concerns, he assured them of his administration’s continued backing and urged them to act decisively in safeguarding lives and property.
“One of the soldiers, who spoke anonymously to the Ministry of Information Media Crew, made a profound remark: ‘I didn’t even know he was the Governor. He was so humble and down-to-earth. When he addressed us, you could see the passion in his eyes. He spoke from the heart, and now we know that our efforts are truly appreciated by the number one citizen of the state. We are motivated to do even more’.
“This statement reflects what many have come to recognize as one of Governor Ododo’s greatest strengths—his humility. He disarms even his fiercest critics with his sincerity. His humility is not political; it is his nature. Leadership, after all, is about service, done with dignity, humility, and a deep sense of responsibility”.
*Walking Among His People*
From Egbe to Odo Ere, the Chief Servant freely interacted with his people, expressing gratitude for the mandate they gave him and reaffirming his commitment to serve. And the impact of his service is evident.
In Egbe, he inspected the ongoing road projects initiated by his administration, designed to transform the town into a modern urban centre. As he walked through the streets, the people chanted his name, celebrating his efforts and expressing their appreciation for the developmental strides under his leadership.
At Odo Ere, the headquarters of Yagba West Local Government Area, he engaged directly with community leaders and civil servants. They had unrestricted access to their Chief Servant, seizing the opportunity to share their thoughts about his administration. The visit turned into a celebration, a testament to how deeply the people cherish his leadership.
In a heartwarming moment, civil servants in the area broke into song, thanking the Governor for his unwavering commitment to their welfare. The atmosphere across Yagba West was electrified with jubilation and gratitude, a reflection of the overwhelming support he enjoys.
*Expanding Development to Yagba East*
The Chief Servant’s journey continued to Yagba East Local Government Area, where he again engaged with traditional rulers and community stakeholders. A key highlight of this visit was the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of Kajola-Obada market road in Makutu-Isanlu, facilitated by Hon Leke Abejide, a legislator known for his dedication to his constituents.
At the event, Governor Ododo commended Abejide for his outstanding representation, describing him as a true advocate for the people. The warmth and admiration between the two leaders underscored the importance of collaboration in governance.
It was no surprise that as the Governor’s convoy passed through Mopamuro, residents lined the roads to cheer him on. His administration is currently rehabilitating the Mopa Township Roads, a project nearing completion and set to be commissioned soon.
*A Leader Who Shares His People’s Burden*
After a long day of engagement and project inspections, Governor Ododo returned to Lokoja around 11 PM. Despite the grueling schedule, his commitment to experiencing what his people go through remained unshaken.
In a remarkable display of leadership by example, he turned down an offer to use a helicopter for the trip. His explanation was profound:
“If I use a helicopter, how will I see the faces of those who hired me to work for them? How will I feel their pulse? How will I be able to read my ratings on their faces? How will I know their needs if I only fly to the places I want to visit? They use that road every day. I want to also go through what they go through daily so that I will know how to keep mounting pressure for rehabilitation and reconstruction. I want to see my people, I won’t use a helicopter.”
This is the kind of leadership that inspires trust, a leader who does not elevate himself above the realities of his people but instead walks with them, listens to them, and shares in their struggles.
Though the visit has ended, its impact lingers in the hearts of the people. More than just a tour, it was a reaffirmation of his commitment to governance that is people-centered and development-driven. His experiences from the visit have already shaped his next wave of projects for Yagba Federal Constituency.
“Leadership is More Than a Word, it is an Act, an Attitude, and a Character”, Fanwo said.
