๐—ž๐—ผ๐—ด๐—ถ ๐—š๐˜‚๐—ฏ๐—ฒ๐—ฟ ๐—ฅ๐—ฎ๐—ฐ๐—ฒ: ๐—” ๐—ฐ๐—ฎ๐—น๐—น ๐—ณ๐—ผ๐—ฟ ๐—ž๐—ผ๐—ด๐—ถ๐˜๐—ฒ๐˜€ ๐˜๐—ผ ๐—ฐ๐—ต๐—ผ๐—ผ๐˜€๐—ฒ ๐—ง๐—ต๐—ฒ ๐—•๐—ฒ๐˜€๐˜

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By ๐˜”๐˜ข๐˜บ๐˜ฎ๐˜ถ๐˜ฏ๐˜ข๐˜ฉ ๐˜ก๐˜ถ๐˜ฃ๐˜ข๐˜ช๐˜ณ

Alhaji Jibrin Momoh

Every society yearns for effective leadership characterised by programs and policies that are people-centric. For the people of Kogi state, the stakes have never been higher, as the lead up to a brand new administration draws near millions of Kogites are pondering.

The quest to see the emergence of a competent leader cuts across the three Senatorial districts in the state as these ponderings are not restricted to one region Citizens want to know: To whose hand should the Destiny of the Confluence land lie? Who will serve us BEST as Executive Steward and Governor of Kogi State?

All over the Internet and beyond, myriad questions are being asked. Kogites want to know who will be faithful and competent enough to be entrusted with their collective future? Kogites are eager to know who among the aspirants will be truthful to his own policy documents and administrative blueprint as captured in their manifestos? Kogites are asking: who among this plethora of aspirants stands a leader who is clothed with qualities of integrity, empathy and love for humanity?

Now more than ever, the people’s passion to be part of the electoral process is at an all time high. The good people of Kogi are resolved to vote in an individual who would be accountable, just, and fair.

While we continue to ponder and ruminate on these pertinent questions, Allow this writer to suggest for our collective scrutiny and acceptance, a spirited, albeit level-headed man, untainted by the avarice of politics, idealistic about the future, and filled to the brim with ideas to turn things around for Kogi as a whole.

I present to the good people of Kogi state, ๐—”๐—น๐—ต๐—ฎ๐—ท๐—ถ ๐—๐—ถ๐—ฏ๐—ฟ๐—ถ๐—ป ๐— ๐—ผ๐—บ๐—ผ๐—ต, popularly known as AG to most, and JB to some. He is a staunch member of the All Progressives Congress, the immediate past Accountant General of the state and the Frontline Governorship aspirant. He is calm, amiable and relatable.

His tenacity belies his reserved demeanour, as he is an active mobilizer of youths and women, and a grassroot community developer to the core.His impact as a humanitarian and his penchant for development transcend his own native land of Okene as he has continued to embark on various schemes, and empowerment initiatives across local government areas in the state; he has undertaken renovations of schools in his immediate community and beyond, as well as spearheaded the drilling of boreholes to bring potable water to many communities.

Moreso, he has contributed to Youth development by undertaking to cover exam fees as well as scholarships with numerous beneficiaries.

Most recently, Alhaji Jibrin Momoh donated food items across the three senatorial districts of Kogi State in a bid to ameliorate hardships during the holy month of Ramadan, and did the same for Christian less fortunate counterparts over the Easter holidays as well.

Easter visit to orphanage on behalf of Alh. Jibrin Momoh
Donation of food items during Ramadan, courtesy of Alh. Jibrin Momoh

These are but many other outreach schemes his philanthropic hands have provided. ๐—๐—•๐—ฒ๐˜€๐˜ – as his campaign has cleverly been coined, continues to create opportunities for young people, women, and the elderly to get empowered, and to build capacity in order to be independent and provide for themselves.

All these, he has done on his own dime and benevolence.

Imagine such innovation, such care and concern for poor and vulnerable people, backed by Government resources and the political will to establish policy and programmes that will galvanize the citizens of Kogi State to greatness?

Just imagine the endless possibilities of having an individual like Alhaji Jibrin Momoh at Lugard House, acting for the people and establishing projects that will better our lives. Imagine a leader who is a go-getter, one who is youth-oriented, who is gender sensitive and women inclusive, who gives equal opportunity to all that deserve it, who is accountable, and who will as a matter of fact, deliver on every mandate he proclaims.

It is easy to imagine, because he has already begun to do them, long before he will ever grace Lugard House with his integrity, brilliance and innovation.

Indeed, his popularity among the grassroots and his hardwork has caught the attention of interested stakeholders, who are actively calling on Alhaji Jibrin Momoh to come forth, and take the baton, to run, and win the race at the upcoming Primary elections. Indeed, the call has been made for us to select the BEST leader for our collective good.

Alh. Jibrin Momoh – A man of the people.

We must not let doubt and fear hold us back from selecting the Best hand to create and sustain prosperity in Kogi State.

Like a mother who returns back to the labour room despite the pain of previous childbirth, we must not relent to take a leap of faith once more; we must trudge on to the polls, come November, to ๐˜ฃ๐˜ช๐˜ณ๐˜ต๐˜ฉ a new era, as it were. We will toil and ๐˜ญ๐˜ข๐˜ฃ๐˜ฐ๐˜ถ๐˜ณ with nothing but hope and pray fervently, that this vote, this ballot, this election will be the one to herald even bigger transformative government for Kogi and her citizens.

We will argue, we will take sides, But we will do so together, hitching our wagons filled with dreams to a candidate, hoping for THE BEST who will champion transparency, efficiency, accountability, and drive to build and sustain the Kogi of our dreams.

And really, in these trying times… Don’t we all deserve THE BEST? Indeed all Kogites Deserve the Best.

Vote Alhaji Jibrin Momoh!

Vote The Best, Vote JBest!

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*๐˜”๐˜ข๐˜บ๐˜ฎ๐˜ถ๐˜ฏ๐˜ข๐˜ฉ ๐˜ก๐˜ถ๐˜ฃ๐˜ข๐˜ช๐˜ณ is a multimedia journalist, and writer whose essays skew towards social commentary and community development. A PR and Communications specialist, She writes from Abuja and Kogi and can be reached via zubairmaymunah@gmail.com

Easter: Emulate Christโ€™s Sacrificial Life, Gov Bello Charges Christians

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Kogi state Governor, Yahaya Bello has rejoiced with the Christian faithful on the occasion of the 2023 Easter celebration.

Bello who spoke in a special message on Friday through a press statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Onogwu Muhammed congratulated the Christian faithful for the successful completion of the lent season which he noted was much-needed self-denial to pray for the peace of the country and wisdom for the leaders.

โ€œI wish to rejoice with our Christian brothers and sisters all over the world on the auspicious occasion of the 2023 Easter celebrations. As we all know, Easter is marked by Christians as a joyous holiday because it represents the gratification of the prophecies and the revelation of God’s redemptive plan for the followers of Christโ€.

While urging Nigerians to remain hopeful about the nationโ€™s progress, Bello said Easter also signifies the celebration of the defeat of death and the hope for salvation.

โ€œIn immortalizing the Resurrection of Jesus, Easter also means the celebration of the defeat of death and the hope of salvation therefore, I urge all citizens to keep faith in our leaders with prayers for a greater Nigeriaโ€, he said

The governor added that just as the death, and resurrection of Christ signified hope for mankind, there must be a renewal of hope for our nation in this season of great challenges.
He urged Christians to reflect on critical issues affecting the nation and to continue seeking the face of God Almighty for the country so that security, unity and peace will prevail in the overall national interest.

Governor Bello who noted that the 2023 general elections, which will usher in new breeds of leaders across the country by May 29 represent a watershed for Nigeria insisted that all citizens who participated effectively in the process of electing leaders into the various offices must also commit themselves to pray for the smooth transmission of government, growth and prosperity of the country.

While assuring the Christian faithful in Kogi state of the stateโ€™s commitment to a joyous celebration free of all hitches, he added that security operatives and other collaborating agencies are working together round-the-clock to checkmate crime and secure the lives and properties of citizens.

Governor Bello urged all Christians who observe the season to find strength and solace in the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

ONOGWU Muhammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
07/04/2023

BELLO COMMISERATES WITH KALU OVER WIFEโ€™s DEATH

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Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello has commiserated with the Senate Chief Whip, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu over the death of his wife, Mrs Ifeoma Adah Kalu whose sad event occurred earlier on Monday.

The governor, in his condolence letter expressed shock over the passing of Mrs Ifeoma Kalu whom he described as an excellent woman, affectionate wife and dutiful mother.

โ€œI am deeply shocked to hear the news of the passing of your dear wife, Mrs Ifeoma Adah Kalu whose sad event occurred earlier on Monday. my dear friend, I am aware of how close you both were as husband and wife and I can imagine how greaving you are at the moment. 
I know it hurts so bad to lose a loving wife and dependable partner of many years. I wish I could find enough words to comfort you at this moment.
I understand late Mrs Ifeoma Adah Kalu was an excellent woman, affectionate wife and dutiful mother of your children who was loved by all those who came in contact with herโ€, the governor said.

Governor Bello urged senator Kalu, his children and other members of his family to take solace in the time his wife spent while stating that she lived well, and served the will of God.

โ€œYou must, however, take solace in the time your wife spent with us and the testimonies of her fear of God and charity should provide strength for the family, knowing that she lived well, and served the will of the Almightyโ€, Bello said
Rest assured that my thoughts are with you and my prayers are that you, the children and all those she left behind will find the strength to continue where she stopped. May her soul find eternal restโ€.

Mrs Ifeoma Adah Kalu died Monday, 3rd April, 2023 at the age of 61.

OGANENIGU INSECURITY: GOV BELLO CALLS FOR CALM, SAYS MERCHANTS OF INSECURITY HAVE NO PLACE TO HIDE IN KOGI

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Kogi state Governor, His Excellency Yahaya Bello has called for calm over the recent attacks on communities in Oganenigu Ward of Dekina Local Government Area of the State by suspected herdsmen.

while describing the vile and satanic attack as a calculated assault on the peace-loving people of Oganenigu who have enjoyed relative peace and security, Bello states that his administration will continue to face out crisis entrepreneurs from the state and ensure that those involved shall be brought to book under the laws.

Governor Bello describes the unexpected development as shocking while assuring that his administration shall commit every available resource to hunt down the criminal actors and make them pay stating that the Government will never bow to the machinations of heartless elements in its resolves to rid the state of criminals.

He commiserates with the people in Oganenigu, particularly the family of the slain Oganenigu APC ward chairman, Hon James Adah and others affected by this ugly and unfortunate attack while urging the people to remain calm.

He however advised the people not to take laws into their hands as security agencies have been swiftly mobilised and deployed to the troubled areas to restore normalcy.

With early deployment of security operatives, normalcy has since returned to Oganenigu.

ONOGWU Muhammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
02/04/2023

Kogites Celebrate as Jibrin Momoh Cleared to Contest Kogi APC Gubernatorial Primary

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Ahead of the April 14 primary election, a Frontline governorship aspirant of the ruling All Progressives Congress, (APC), Alhaji Jibril Momoh has been cleared to contest the forthcoming primary election of the party

Recall that all aspirants seeking APC governorship tickets were screened in Abuja on Saturday.

Alhaji Momoh whose clearance was greeted with great and magnetic jubilations across the state had party faithfuls, supporters, and youth/women groups occupying major streets to express their satisfaction and readiness to work harmoniously with Jibrin Momoh at the partyโ€™s primary.

Sources revealed that rigorous consultations were already ongoing to ensure that Jibrin emerged victorious in the primary election.

Recall also that no fewer than 19 individuals have shown interest in the Kogi governorship slot.

A member of the party told our reporter, said with the happenings and recent events, Jibrin Momoh appears to be more comfortable and positioned to get the partyโ€™s ticket following his scintillating antecedents.

Sources within Momohโ€™s Campaign Organization said their principal was ready to slug it out with the rest of the aspirants as indices of possibilities point to him clinching the ticket.

Kogi State Guber Primaries: Alh. Jibrin Momoh Cleared to Run

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As the lead up to the All Progressives Congress Kogi State governorship primary elections draws near, foremost aspirant, and Accountant General of Kogi State, Alh. Jibrin Momoh has cleared his most recent hurdle, bagging his Clearance Certificate to contest the primary elections come 14th April, 2023.

Widespread jubilation across quarters of Kogi State and the media space has seemingly confirmed rumors that the aspirant is the preferred candidate for the coveted position of Governor of Kogi State, as about 18 aspirants have thrown their hats in the ring for the primaries.

Insiders have confirmed that intense work is underway to ensure Alh. Jibrin Momoh emerges the victor of the hotly contested candidacy.

The primary elections will hold in a fortnight to determine who will be the Kogi State flag bearer of the APC ahead of the Gubernatorial elections in November, 2023.

TPAND DG Advises Atiku, Obi on Tinubuโ€™s Victory, Roadmap for Better Nigeria

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The Tinubu Presidential Ambassadors of Nigeria and Diaspora (TPAND), a support group with prominence throughout the campaign period, has sent a congratulatory message to the President-elect, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The message was detailed in a statement which was presented at a press conference, and saw the Director General of the group, Hon. Engr. Yusuff Hussain alongside principal members of TPAND felicitating with the President-elect on his recent win at the polls.

The DG, who also served as Deputy Director, Diaspora Directorate APC-PCC said: “Please accept our heartfelt laudation for your deserved victory and our best wishes as you prepare to take up the leadership responsibilities of your exalt office.
We believed in the incoming administration of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s action plan for a better Nigeria. The Renewed Hope for National Security, Education, Economy, Youth empowerment, stable electricity, Agriculture and other infrastructural revolution. We acknowledged Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu Capacity, Capability, and Intelligent, his diversity and the plurality of ideas, and his keen interest in the importance of teamwork between the private and public sectors.

“As you embark on this journey to Renew the Hope of Nigerians, we want to assure you and the members of our great party of the continued support of TPAND across all levels.
We have strong belief and confidence in you and we know you will do amazingly as the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

Speaking about the ongoing controversy regarding oppositions, the group said:

“We want to state categorically our stand in the numerous character assassination and so many outburst against the person of the President-elect by the opposition on national TV and social media.
โ€ข The election been won and lost was based on political calculations and the dynamics that played out before the election.

โ€ข We hereby urge all stakeholders in Nigeria to caution the opposition of their utterances and character assassination against the president-elect.
โ€ข There are avenues provided by the law to channel their grievances and dissatisfaction.
โ€ข We urge Nigerians to continue to remain peaceful as Nigeria is the only country we have.”

In closing, the group expressed renewed hope for the future of the country under the incoming administration.

“Hope has cometh, as the Jagaban of Borgu being elected the president of Nigeria, we believe in your capacity to find lots of good and lasting solutions to fix our problems, and lots of good wishes and love for you and the entire APC members elected,” the statement read.

Gov Yahaya Bello Felicitates President-elect Bola Tinubu At 71

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The Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello has sent his warm felicitations to the President-elect Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his 71st birthday while describing him as a great leader with exceptional vision.

In a statement signed by the Governor, he described Asiwaju Bola Tinubu as a man who is renowned for uncommon wisdom, and exemplary leadership, who over the decades has made extraordinary memories and woven his own unique story into the Nigerian narrative.

โ€œOn behalf of the Government and good people of Kogi State, I write to congratulate Your Excellency, our President-elect, Ahmed Bola Tinubu on your 71st birthday.
Your Excellency, you have become renowned for uncommon wisdom, remarkable vision and exemplary leadership, and over the decades you have made extraordinary memories and woven your own unique story into the Nigerian narrativeโ€. He said.

Bello said having served as a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and as the executive governor of Lagos State with deep legislative and executive experiences, the people are optimistic that his tenure as the next President of Nigeria will usher in new vistas of economic growth, security and overall good governance, for youth and all Nigerians.

โ€œWe salute you on this auspicious day for the substantial contributions you have made towards building our nation even as we confess our great excitement that with you as our President-elect we can now look forward to your promise of Renewed Hope and Future Assured.
We are optimistic that your tenure will usher in new vistas of economic growth, security and overall good governance, for our youth and all Nigerians.
Your Excellency, even as you prepare for the task ahead, we urge that you reflect a while today on your contributions to our nation and humanity at large and take a moment to relish your tremendous accomplishmentsโ€, the governor added.

While rejoicing with family members, friends, political and associates of the Jagaban Borgu on this rosy milestone, he prayed that the Almighty continue to keep him in sound health and overall vitality.

โ€œMay the Almighty God continue to keep you in sound health and overall vitality.
Happy Birthday Your Excellencyโ€, the Governor added.

Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu who was born in 1952 turns 71 on March 29, 2023.

RAMADAN: Pray Fervently For the Nation, Engage in Good Deeds, Gov Bello Charges Muslims

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Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello has congratulated the Muslim Ummah on the sighting of the moon which signifies the commencement of this yearโ€™s Ramadan fast, urging the people to dedicate the season to pray fervently for the state and country in general.

In a statement issued in Lokoja on Wednesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Onogwu Muhammed, Governor Bello charged the Muslims to align themselves with the universal values of peace, kindness, love and respect for others which the Islamic faith promotes.

He noted that the Ramadan period which is globally revered should be utilised by Muslim faithful across the nation to pray for progress and peace while admonishing them to engage in good deeds and acts of Ibadah.

โ€œI wish to congratulate the Muslim Ummah for witnessing another month of Ramadan and to wish them a blessed and peaceful Ramadan.
“The holy month of Ramadan, for millions around the world has always been an opportunity to renew and strengthen their faith through rigorous fasting, devout prayers, reading of the Quran, reflective meditation, and carrying out of charitable deeds.

“All these acts closely conformed to the universal values that the Islamic faith promotes namely, peace, kindness, love and respect for othersโ€, the Governor said.

 Bello called on Muslims to devote more time to prayer and acts of charity as they similarly strived to improve their self-discipline motivated by hadith.
 
He further admonished that this yearโ€™s  Ramadan which coincides with the transition of democratic leadership of the nation and many states should be used to pray for peace, unity and progress of the nation. He added that Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, self-improvement, and heightened devotion and worship, as followers of Islam were expected to put more effort into following the teachings of Prophet Muhammed (S.A.W).
 
Governor Bello prayed for God to bestow on all Muslim Ummah good health to engage Faithfully and benefit from the blessings of the season.

PRESS RELEASE: KOGI MIREMCO BOSS CHARGES STAKEHOLDERS TO UPHOLD THE NEUTRALITY OF THE COMMITTEE

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The Chairman of the Kogi State Mineral Resources and Environmental Management Committee (MIREMCO), Hajiya Hassiat Suleiman has charged all mining stakeholders in the state to correct any negative preconceived notion they may have formed about MIREMCO and understand that the committee remains a neutral body that is created to intervene among stakeholders in the mining sector.

The call was made during a meeting between the spokespersons and representatives of Okobo/Enjema Communities and Messrs Zuma 828 Coal Ltd to review the performance of the 5-year Community Development Agreement which will expire in March of 2023.

The event which took place at the Conference Room of The Spring Building, in Kogi State Government House drew attendance from such stakeholders as MIREMCO members, Hon. Alfa Rabiu Momoh, deputy speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Hon. Idris Musa Danjuma, the Commissioner for Youth and Sport Development, Alhaji Ibrahim Abagwu, the Executive Chairman of Ankpa Local Government Area, representatives of both Okobo/Enjema Communities and Zuma 828 Coal Ltd, and Security Agencies.

The company had hoped that by the end of the meeting a new CDA would be signed between themselves and their host communities but the community reps pointed out certain areas in the expiring agreement that had not been fulfilled. These include failure to complete the sinking of 5 boreholes across both communities; the company had only provided 4, failure to make drainages and culverts at strategic points along the access roads within both communities.

In her remarks Hajiya Hassiat said: “MIREMCO was created to mediate between stakeholders and the chairmanship was left to the Executive Governor to nominate someone from the State.

“it is funny when a party assumes that MIREMCO is taking sides when all we do here is make sure there is a harmonious transactional relationship between the investors and their host communities. ” The meeting was adjourned until 15th of May 2023, giving a 60-day window for the company to put their acts together and address the lapses in the expiring CDA. It is expected that upon reconvention, a fresh Agreement will be signed between Messrs Zuma 828 Coal Ltd and their Host Communities.

Signed,

Adeiza Yaqub,

Committee Media Rep.