The Chief of Staff to the Governor of Kogi State, Hon Edward Onoja has called on the people of Igala land to reflect on how underdevelopment was the order of the day in the area in the past until the inception of the present administration of Alhaji Yahaya Bello to give needed attention to some important projects in the vicinity.

 

He stated this while delivering an address at Okpo, the headquarters of Olamaboro Local Government Area of the state at an event to mark the decamping of over 2000 members of PDP, LP and APGA in the council.

 

His speech, which was titled; “Change Took 32 Years and a Stranger!,” detailed how it took Governor Bello to ensure the construction of notable roads in Igala Land, construct electricity projects, sink boreholes, give scholarship and other important gestures to uplift the situation of the people of the area.

 

Here is the full address below:

 

Protocols

Before I continue let say this Loud and Clear without Ambiguity with about 17 of 20 Elected Ward Councillors and 6 of 10 Supervisory Councillors, PDP Zonal Secetary, Former Executive Chairman and Assembly member and his Vice Chairman and other Serving and Ex PDP Executives and thousands of their Supporters and die hard followers Olamaboro it Taken and you can take that to the BANK.

I am excited to welcome everyone here today. This Decamping Ceremony is also doubling as the funeral rites of the PDP and any other political party in Olamaboro, LGA in particular and Kogi East in general. APC has taken over and I will tell you why.

First is that our people voted for the APC in the last Gubernatorial elections. We voted for Change. Late Prince Audu Abubakar, an indisputable Leader in Igalaland and all over Kogi State symbolically received the Baton as APC Flagbearer on August 30th, 2015 during the APC Gubernatorial Primaries at the Confluence Stadium, Lokoja. He ran a great race on behalf of our party, but was not able to complete it. The ways of God are not our ways.

His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Bello was called upon by the APC to complete the race and carry the Divine Mandate as Governor of Kogi State. Truly the ways of God are not our ways. I can assure you as a close aide to the Governor that the future of my boss is heavily pregnant with greatness.

Governor Yahaya Bello also recognises the contributions of our late leader to the victory of the APC in Kogi State. He has taken action to immortalise Adoja’s memory, including bestowing on him the highest honour available during the 25th Anniversary Celebrations of our dear state.

Personally the Late Prince Abubakar Audu was and still is the father whom I worked closely with to Rescue, Restore and Rebuild Kogi in 2011. Today as God would have it, I am working with a Leader, boss and friend who gives me the privilege of calling me his Siamese Twin brother (Ejima ka me ne bi ma ne ke daru).

It is therefore God's Divine Doing that Leadership in Kogi State is in the hands of the Youth today, including the Youth of Olamaboro. It's our duty to discharge it well, to guard and protect it with our lives if need be. And this we will do with God by our side.

Secondly is that many parts of Kogi State, including Kogi East are seeing and feeling more Government presence in the form of projects than we have ever seen before. Government is meant to work for the people, and I will not hesitate to say that the New Direction Administration of Governor Yahaya Bello is working for Kogi People, even more than any other previous Administration.

Let me give us a personal example:

For some reason I never took particular notice of the Ibana-Okpo-Igah Ikeje-Ogugu-Ette Road till I was in secondary school. After I gained admission into Federal Government College, Kwali, Abuja, that road became one of the places I feared most. In fact, if I didn't have to see my parents, I probably would have stopped coming to the village as a child simply to avoid passing through that road. After years of the terrible experience, a picture of that road stuck in my head.

 

For 32 years!

During that 32 years, Kogi State was created and our ‘brothers’ started to rule us. We could no longer blame leaders in Kwara State or Benue State for our problems. Our brothers were in charge, but guess what? For about 20 out of our 26 years as a state, our people ruled our land, but Igah Ikeje Road remained unchanged. The sadder thing was that many of such roads existed in our Local Government Area. In addition, we did not have other infrastructure and utilities. Electricity, portable water, good health centres, and schools were lacking. Olamaboro in general seemed abandoned, without much development.

Then Alhaji Yahaya Bello from Agassa, Okene in Kogi Central became the 4th Executive Governor of Kogi State and construction started on Igah Ikeje Road and many other roads in Olamaboro LGA. Boreholes are being sunk all over. Electricity projects are ongoing. Direct welfare projects (scholarship, business support, foodstuffs, farm inputs, medical help, etc) are reaching people at the grassroots for the very first time ever. Olamaboro, along with much of Kogi State today can feel Government.

I will run us through a list of the projects which the Administration of this man whom many of our people will call a ‘stranger’ or Non Igala has helped to bring to us after just 18 months in office. After the run through, you ll agree with me the rationale behind the “Enemuneme” slogan.

PROJECTS IN OLAMABORO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA BY THE NEW DIRECTION ADMINISTRATION OF HIS EXCELLENCY, GOVERNOR YAHAYA BELLO OF KOGI STATE

(A) YOUTHS EMPOWERMENT/HUMAN CAPACITY BUILDING PROGRAMS:

1. Over 20 Students currently on scholarship in higher institutions  (state ministry of youths and sport).

2. Additional 60 Students to be awarded scholarships to various institutions by Honourable Edward Onoja, the Chief of Staff to the Governor of Kogi State. The selection process is ongoing and 35% of them will be females. The target is to have beneficiaries in all the 6 tertiary institutions in Kogi State as follows:

*10 in Kogi State University.

*10 in Federal University, Lokoja.

*10 in Federal Polytechnic, Idah.

*10 in Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja.

*10 in College of Education, Ankpa.

*10 in Federal College of Education, Okene.

3. Over 200 youths were empowered in various trades and enterprises to grow the economic prospects of Olamaboro LGA.

(B) HEALTH INTERVENTIONS:

Beneficiaries of Governor Bello Health Intervention for indigent patients in Olamaboro LGA:

1. Mr Anthony Sani; Ogugu District; Fracture of the femur.

2. Mr. Daniel Adama; Olamaboro District; Kidney failure.

3. Mr Friday Ikoekwu; Inele Ward; Deformity on the leg.

4. Mr. Ochuman's son; Okpo; Cancer of the face and scalp.

5. 4 wheelchairs to 4 disabled persons in the 3 districts.

6. Purchase of Ambulance to aid movement of patients to General Hospital, Okpo.

7. Free Medical Outreach in Ankpa and Okpo where hundreds benefited from free clinical and surgical care.

8. Rehabilitation of Emonyoku Clinic.

9. Rehabilitation of Cottage Hospital with ongoing construction of staff quarters in Ogugu.

10. Free Healthcare Sensitization and various treatments including surgery carried by Honourable Dr. Ahmed Attah J. and team in Adupi, Ogugu.

11. Free Medical Outreach  in Okpo for hypertensive patients and free eye treatment.

12. Free mosquito net distributed to every household in Olamaboro.

(C) WATER PROJECTS FOR ALL

1. Drilling of borehole in Ochaja Emonyoku polling unit.(Personal)

2. Drilling of borehole in Ogodu Efofe polling unit.(Personal)

3. Drilling of borehole in Ogene Polling unit.(Personal)

4. Drilling of borehole in Sabon Gari-Ogugu Area.(Personal)

5. Drilling of borehole in Egah Orinono polling unit.(Personal)

6. Drilling of borehole in Ojamakogwu polling unit, Okpo. (State).

7. Drilling of borehole in Odidoko Community.(Personal)

8. Drilling of borehole in Emonyoku-Ogo community.(Personal)

9. Drilling of borehole in Agaliga Efabo.(State)

10 Drilling of borehole in Imane centre.

(state)

11. Drilling of borehole in Emagaba.(Personal)

12. Drilling of borehole in Ofa-Okpo.(State)

Some are still ongoing! Many more to follow.

 (D) ELECTRICITY:

*Ongoing feasibility studies for Project Light Up Kogi East which will on completion connect all of Kogi East, including Olamaboro LGA to the federal line in Ajaokuta.

(E) ROAD PROJECTS:

1. Construction of Ibana-Okpo-Igah Ikeje-Ogugu-Ette-Kogi-Enugu border road.

(F) AGRICULTURE:

1. Donation of over 650 bags of fertiliser by the GYB team of appointees from Olamaboro LGA lead by Chief of Staff, Edward Onoja with 5 bags distributed to farmers in each of the 124 polling units in Olamaboro LGA irrespective of party affiliation.

2. 35 among over 120 Olamaboro youths trained by the Administration in various skills majored on crop production, aquaculture, and livestock farming. The Administration is processing their empowerment to start off businesses.

(G) SOCIAL SERVICE FOR UNIONS:

*The Purchase of 4 Sienna buses for National Union of Road Transport Workers, Olamaboro chapter.

*The Purchase of 4 Motorcycles to Okada Union, Olamaboro LGA Chapter.

(H) SOCIAL SERVICE FOR YOUTHS/PARTY APC :

1. Financial support for the take off and stability of APC ladies wing Olamaboro.

2. Financial support for the take off and stability of Olamaboro GYB Youths forum.

3. Financial support for other groups in Olamaboro LGA.

(I) SERVICE TO GOD AND HUMANITY:

1. Construction of Olamaboro Central Mosque Okpo by my friends and I with his Excellency's Approval and support.

2. Payment of N5,000.00 monthly allowance to 60 less privileged persons and widows across the local government.

3. Feeding of widows by the wife of His Excellency, Hajia Rashidat Bello.

4. Distribution of well over 200 units 50kg bags of rice by Honourable Adejoh Nicodemus Friday, the Administrator, Olamaboro LGA to Muslim families across the 124 polling units in Olamaboro during the last Ramadan.

5. The GYB Food Security project on Democracy Day May 29th 2017 distributed N50,000.00, 50 bags of rice and 5 bags of fertiliser to each of the 2,548 polling units in Olamaboro LGA.

SOME KEY AND NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE ADMINISTRATOR

(A). LOCAL GOVERNMENT PROJECT ON ROAD AND STREET OPENING.

1. Dualization of Olamaboro LGA secretariat Road.

2. Okpo Water side Road.

3. Okpo-Alagalani Road.

4. Alagalani- Onugba Uko Road.

5. Okpo-Alah Road.

6. Alah-Agala Road.

7. Agala-Ojuwo Eboyi Road.

8. Okegbe Ate Road Ogugu.

9. Ogene -road Ogugu.

10. Emagaba Ofante Road. Ogugu.

11. Adum-Emagaba 2.

12. Emagaba – Ogbuofe Road.

13. Inabe-Emagaba Road.

14. Ade-Efakpa Road.

15. Efakpa-Imane Road.

16. Ejenumu-Agbaduma Road.

17. Ogugu Centre-Adum Ogbofe Road.

18. Ofante-Amaka Road.

19. Ogugu – Ematokwo Road.

20. Ofa-Awodo Road. Etutekpe

21. Ojamekele – Agaliga Adum Road.

22. Ekpunobe-agaliga Etukwo Road.

23. Okpo – Obele to Eboyi Road.

24. Okpo-township Efuaji Road

25. Education office, God's care mission Road.

26. Okpo – Ofanwa Road.

27. Agbaduma – Akpakpa Road.

28. Akpakpa – Agaliga Etukwo Road.

(B). LOCAL GOVERNMENT PROJECT ON WATER FOR ALL.

(1) Ojamakogu-Okpo Community Drilling of borehole.

(2) Agaliga Efabo community Drilling of borehole.

(C)  LOCAL GOVERNMENT PROJECTS ON HEALTH, HUMANITARIANS.

1. Inauguration of health committee in the local government council.

2. Free surgery for an accident victim Mr Sule from Efofe Imane.

3. Free surgery for one Mr Joseph Okpe from Igah.

4. Payment of bill on child delivery for some mothers.

5. Assistant to law enforcement agents to ease their work (Such support include Accommodation, funding, and creating synergy between them and local Vigilantes for mutuality.

6. Donation of food items, cooking condiments to the widows, orphans, the poor and less privileged especially during festivities.

7. Youth empowerment program(130 youths) initiated by the chief of staff, all GYB appointees both State and local government women and men in different trades with a start up capital.

8. Purchase of Sewing machine for a widow Mrs Isiaka.

(D) General operational and logistical support to Olamaboro Local Government Secretariat and her staff.

Logistics and Financial Support to about 20 students given scholarship by state government to study various courses.

The List is simply Endless

I'll hasten to conclude

My conclusion is that it makes political sense to align with somebody or Group or party that has brought development and welfare to our place. The ‘stranger’ who does more for the welfare of my people is my brother. Governor Yahaya Bello has practically demonstrated more love for Olamaboro LGA in less than 18 months than any other Governor before him, some of whom had more than 8 years. We must not allow any sentiments to rob us of this opportunity.

This is why it makes sense that today, Olamaboro people who used to be in the failed PDP and other parties are today giving their support and loyalty to Governor Yahaya Bello by decamping to the APC.

When you look at the profile and calibre of the persons decamping to join us today, you will understand why I said at the beginning of this address that today is also the funeral ceremony of the failed PDP in Olamaboro LGA. Many of them are leaders and former leaders of that failed party, some of them still in office. I salute the courage and honesty of the decampees. It is good to do what is right and shame the devil.

I will not end today without thanking the Almighty God for the life of our President, His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The devil tried to cut short the Change Agenda which Baba Maigaskiya is instituting in Nigeria, but God has defeated him for the sake of the poor masses of this country. We pray that the Almighty will continue to sustain our President, our Governor and all us with long life, excellent health and enduring prosperity.

If there is anyone who is a role model for our Governor, it is our President. Alhaji Yahaya Bello is one of the foremost disciples of the Buhari School of Leadership which is why he tries his best to govern Kogi State with the fear of God and utmost integrity. His Excellency, Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State could not make it here today because of pressing matters of state in Abuja. He has gone to seek audience with the President for the benefit of Kogi People.

Though absent in person today, the Governor is present with us in spirit. He supports what we are doing and he asked me to convey his best regards to this august gathering and the entire Olamaboro LGA. He wishes Olamaboro to know how much he values their support. He promises to complete every project he has commenced, not just in Olamaboro, but all over the state. And he promises to start and finish even more PROJECTS for us.

I end by repeating my favourite maxim: ‘The man who develops my place and provides for the welfare of my people is my brother.’

I thank everyone for coming today.

God bless you.

About Post Author

The Chief of Staff to the Governor of Kogi State, Hon Edward Onoja has called on the people of Igala land to reflect on how underdevelopment was the order of the day in the area in the past until the inception of the present administration of Alhaji Yahaya Bello to give needed attention to some important projects in the vicinity.

 

He stated this while delivering an address at Okpo, the headquarters of Olamaboro Local Government Area of the state at an event to mark the decamping of over 2000 members of PDP, LP and APGA in the council.

 

His speech, which was titled; “Change Took 32 Years and a Stranger!,” detailed how it took Governor Bello to ensure the construction of notable roads in Igala Land, construct electricity projects, sink boreholes, give scholarship and other important gestures to uplift the situation of the people of the area.

 

Here is the full address below:

 

Protocols

Before I continue let say this Loud and Clear without Ambiguity with about 17 of 20 Elected Ward Councillors and 6 of 10 Supervisory Councillors, PDP Zonal Secetary, Former Executive Chairman and Assembly member and his Vice Chairman and other Serving and Ex PDP Executives and thousands of their Supporters and die hard followers Olamaboro it Taken and you can take that to the BANK.

I am excited to welcome everyone here today. This Decamping Ceremony is also doubling as the funeral rites of the PDP and any other political party in Olamaboro, LGA in particular and Kogi East in general. APC has taken over and I will tell you why.

First is that our people voted for the APC in the last Gubernatorial elections. We voted for Change. Late Prince Audu Abubakar, an indisputable Leader in Igalaland and all over Kogi State symbolically received the Baton as APC Flagbearer on August 30th, 2015 during the APC Gubernatorial Primaries at the Confluence Stadium, Lokoja. He ran a great race on behalf of our party, but was not able to complete it. The ways of God are not our ways.

His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Bello was called upon by the APC to complete the race and carry the Divine Mandate as Governor of Kogi State. Truly the ways of God are not our ways. I can assure you as a close aide to the Governor that the future of my boss is heavily pregnant with greatness.

Governor Yahaya Bello also recognises the contributions of our late leader to the victory of the APC in Kogi State. He has taken action to immortalise Adoja’s memory, including bestowing on him the highest honour available during the 25th Anniversary Celebrations of our dear state.

Personally the Late Prince Abubakar Audu was and still is the father whom I worked closely with to Rescue, Restore and Rebuild Kogi in 2011. Today as God would have it, I am working with a Leader, boss and friend who gives me the privilege of calling me his Siamese Twin brother (Ejima ka me ne bi ma ne ke daru).

It is therefore God's Divine Doing that Leadership in Kogi State is in the hands of the Youth today, including the Youth of Olamaboro. It's our duty to discharge it well, to guard and protect it with our lives if need be. And this we will do with God by our side.

Secondly is that many parts of Kogi State, including Kogi East are seeing and feeling more Government presence in the form of projects than we have ever seen before. Government is meant to work for the people, and I will not hesitate to say that the New Direction Administration of Governor Yahaya Bello is working for Kogi People, even more than any other previous Administration.

Let me give us a personal example:

For some reason I never took particular notice of the Ibana-Okpo-Igah Ikeje-Ogugu-Ette Road till I was in secondary school. After I gained admission into Federal Government College, Kwali, Abuja, that road became one of the places I feared most. In fact, if I didn't have to see my parents, I probably would have stopped coming to the village as a child simply to avoid passing through that road. After years of the terrible experience, a picture of that road stuck in my head.

 

For 32 years!

During that 32 years, Kogi State was created and our ‘brothers’ started to rule us. We could no longer blame leaders in Kwara State or Benue State for our problems. Our brothers were in charge, but guess what? For about 20 out of our 26 years as a state, our people ruled our land, but Igah Ikeje Road remained unchanged. The sadder thing was that many of such roads existed in our Local Government Area. In addition, we did not have other infrastructure and utilities. Electricity, portable water, good health centres, and schools were lacking. Olamaboro in general seemed abandoned, without much development.

Then Alhaji Yahaya Bello from Agassa, Okene in Kogi Central became the 4th Executive Governor of Kogi State and construction started on Igah Ikeje Road and many other roads in Olamaboro LGA. Boreholes are being sunk all over. Electricity projects are ongoing. Direct welfare projects (scholarship, business support, foodstuffs, farm inputs, medical help, etc) are reaching people at the grassroots for the very first time ever. Olamaboro, along with much of Kogi State today can feel Government.

I will run us through a list of the projects which the Administration of this man whom many of our people will call a ‘stranger’ or Non Igala has helped to bring to us after just 18 months in office. After the run through, you ll agree with me the rationale behind the “Enemuneme” slogan.

PROJECTS IN OLAMABORO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA BY THE NEW DIRECTION ADMINISTRATION OF HIS EXCELLENCY, GOVERNOR YAHAYA BELLO OF KOGI STATE

(A) YOUTHS EMPOWERMENT/HUMAN CAPACITY BUILDING PROGRAMS:

1. Over 20 Students currently on scholarship in higher institutions  (state ministry of youths and sport).

2. Additional 60 Students to be awarded scholarships to various institutions by Honourable Edward Onoja, the Chief of Staff to the Governor of Kogi State. The selection process is ongoing and 35% of them will be females. The target is to have beneficiaries in all the 6 tertiary institutions in Kogi State as follows:

*10 in Kogi State University.

*10 in Federal University, Lokoja.

*10 in Federal Polytechnic, Idah.

*10 in Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja.

*10 in College of Education, Ankpa.

*10 in Federal College of Education, Okene.

3. Over 200 youths were empowered in various trades and enterprises to grow the economic prospects of Olamaboro LGA.

(B) HEALTH INTERVENTIONS:

Beneficiaries of Governor Bello Health Intervention for indigent patients in Olamaboro LGA:

1. Mr Anthony Sani; Ogugu District; Fracture of the femur.

2. Mr. Daniel Adama; Olamaboro District; Kidney failure.

3. Mr Friday Ikoekwu; Inele Ward; Deformity on the leg.

4. Mr. Ochuman's son; Okpo; Cancer of the face and scalp.

5. 4 wheelchairs to 4 disabled persons in the 3 districts.

6. Purchase of Ambulance to aid movement of patients to General Hospital, Okpo.

7. Free Medical Outreach in Ankpa and Okpo where hundreds benefited from free clinical and surgical care.

8. Rehabilitation of Emonyoku Clinic.

9. Rehabilitation of Cottage Hospital with ongoing construction of staff quarters in Ogugu.

10. Free Healthcare Sensitization and various treatments including surgery carried by Honourable Dr. Ahmed Attah J. and team in Adupi, Ogugu.

11. Free Medical Outreach  in Okpo for hypertensive patients and free eye treatment.

12. Free mosquito net distributed to every household in Olamaboro.

(C) WATER PROJECTS FOR ALL

1. Drilling of borehole in Ochaja Emonyoku polling unit.(Personal)

2. Drilling of borehole in Ogodu Efofe polling unit.(Personal)

3. Drilling of borehole in Ogene Polling unit.(Personal)

4. Drilling of borehole in Sabon Gari-Ogugu Area.(Personal)

5. Drilling of borehole in Egah Orinono polling unit.(Personal)

6. Drilling of borehole in Ojamakogwu polling unit, Okpo. (State).

7. Drilling of borehole in Odidoko Community.(Personal)

8. Drilling of borehole in Emonyoku-Ogo community.(Personal)

9. Drilling of borehole in Agaliga Efabo.(State)

10 Drilling of borehole in Imane centre.

(state)

11. Drilling of borehole in Emagaba.(Personal)

12. Drilling of borehole in Ofa-Okpo.(State)

Some are still ongoing! Many more to follow.

 (D) ELECTRICITY:

*Ongoing feasibility studies for Project Light Up Kogi East which will on completion connect all of Kogi East, including Olamaboro LGA to the federal line in Ajaokuta.

(E) ROAD PROJECTS:

1. Construction of Ibana-Okpo-Igah Ikeje-Ogugu-Ette-Kogi-Enugu border road.

(F) AGRICULTURE:

1. Donation of over 650 bags of fertiliser by the GYB team of appointees from Olamaboro LGA lead by Chief of Staff, Edward Onoja with 5 bags distributed to farmers in each of the 124 polling units in Olamaboro LGA irrespective of party affiliation.

2. 35 among over 120 Olamaboro youths trained by the Administration in various skills majored on crop production, aquaculture, and livestock farming. The Administration is processing their empowerment to start off businesses.

(G) SOCIAL SERVICE FOR UNIONS:

*The Purchase of 4 Sienna buses for National Union of Road Transport Workers, Olamaboro chapter.

*The Purchase of 4 Motorcycles to Okada Union, Olamaboro LGA Chapter.

(H) SOCIAL SERVICE FOR YOUTHS/PARTY APC :

1. Financial support for the take off and stability of APC ladies wing Olamaboro.

2. Financial support for the take off and stability of Olamaboro GYB Youths forum.

3. Financial support for other groups in Olamaboro LGA.

(I) SERVICE TO GOD AND HUMANITY:

1. Construction of Olamaboro Central Mosque Okpo by my friends and I with his Excellency's Approval and support.

2. Payment of N5,000.00 monthly allowance to 60 less privileged persons and widows across the local government.

3. Feeding of widows by the wife of His Excellency, Hajia Rashidat Bello.

4. Distribution of well over 200 units 50kg bags of rice by Honourable Adejoh Nicodemus Friday, the Administrator, Olamaboro LGA to Muslim families across the 124 polling units in Olamaboro during the last Ramadan.

5. The GYB Food Security project on Democracy Day May 29th 2017 distributed N50,000.00, 50 bags of rice and 5 bags of fertiliser to each of the 2,548 polling units in Olamaboro LGA.

SOME KEY AND NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE ADMINISTRATOR

(A). LOCAL GOVERNMENT PROJECT ON ROAD AND STREET OPENING.

1. Dualization of Olamaboro LGA secretariat Road.

2. Okpo Water side Road.

3. Okpo-Alagalani Road.

4. Alagalani- Onugba Uko Road.

5. Okpo-Alah Road.

6. Alah-Agala Road.

7. Agala-Ojuwo Eboyi Road.

8. Okegbe Ate Road Ogugu.

9. Ogene -road Ogugu.

10. Emagaba Ofante Road. Ogugu.

11. Adum-Emagaba 2.

12. Emagaba – Ogbuofe Road.

13. Inabe-Emagaba Road.

14. Ade-Efakpa Road.

15. Efakpa-Imane Road.

16. Ejenumu-Agbaduma Road.

17. Ogugu Centre-Adum Ogbofe Road.

18. Ofante-Amaka Road.

19. Ogugu – Ematokwo Road.

20. Ofa-Awodo Road. Etutekpe

21. Ojamekele – Agaliga Adum Road.

22. Ekpunobe-agaliga Etukwo Road.

23. Okpo – Obele to Eboyi Road.

24. Okpo-township Efuaji Road

25. Education office, God's care mission Road.

26. Okpo – Ofanwa Road.

27. Agbaduma – Akpakpa Road.

28. Akpakpa – Agaliga Etukwo Road.

(B). LOCAL GOVERNMENT PROJECT ON WATER FOR ALL.

(1) Ojamakogu-Okpo Community Drilling of borehole.

(2) Agaliga Efabo community Drilling of borehole.

(C)  LOCAL GOVERNMENT PROJECTS ON HEALTH, HUMANITARIANS.

1. Inauguration of health committee in the local government council.

2. Free surgery for an accident victim Mr Sule from Efofe Imane.

3. Free surgery for one Mr Joseph Okpe from Igah.

4. Payment of bill on child delivery for some mothers.

5. Assistant to law enforcement agents to ease their work (Such support include Accommodation, funding, and creating synergy between them and local Vigilantes for mutuality.

6. Donation of food items, cooking condiments to the widows, orphans, the poor and less privileged especially during festivities.

7. Youth empowerment program(130 youths) initiated by the chief of staff, all GYB appointees both State and local government women and men in different trades with a start up capital.

8. Purchase of Sewing machine for a widow Mrs Isiaka.

(D) General operational and logistical support to Olamaboro Local Government Secretariat and her staff.

Logistics and Financial Support to about 20 students given scholarship by state government to study various courses.

The List is simply Endless

I'll hasten to conclude

My conclusion is that it makes political sense to align with somebody or Group or party that has brought development and welfare to our place. The ‘stranger’ who does more for the welfare of my people is my brother. Governor Yahaya Bello has practically demonstrated more love for Olamaboro LGA in less than 18 months than any other Governor before him, some of whom had more than 8 years. We must not allow any sentiments to rob us of this opportunity.

This is why it makes sense that today, Olamaboro people who used to be in the failed PDP and other parties are today giving their support and loyalty to Governor Yahaya Bello by decamping to the APC.

When you look at the profile and calibre of the persons decamping to join us today, you will understand why I said at the beginning of this address that today is also the funeral ceremony of the failed PDP in Olamaboro LGA. Many of them are leaders and former leaders of that failed party, some of them still in office. I salute the courage and honesty of the decampees. It is good to do what is right and shame the devil.

I will not end today without thanking the Almighty God for the life of our President, His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The devil tried to cut short the Change Agenda which Baba Maigaskiya is instituting in Nigeria, but God has defeated him for the sake of the poor masses of this country. We pray that the Almighty will continue to sustain our President, our Governor and all us with long life, excellent health and enduring prosperity.

If there is anyone who is a role model for our Governor, it is our President. Alhaji Yahaya Bello is one of the foremost disciples of the Buhari School of Leadership which is why he tries his best to govern Kogi State with the fear of God and utmost integrity. His Excellency, Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State could not make it here today because of pressing matters of state in Abuja. He has gone to seek audience with the President for the benefit of Kogi People.

Though absent in person today, the Governor is present with us in spirit. He supports what we are doing and he asked me to convey his best regards to this august gathering and the entire Olamaboro LGA. He wishes Olamaboro to know how much he values their support. He promises to complete every project he has commenced, not just in Olamaboro, but all over the state. And he promises to start and finish even more PROJECTS for us.

I end by repeating my favourite maxim: ‘The man who develops my place and provides for the welfare of my people is my brother.’

I thank everyone for coming today.

God bless you.

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The Chief of Staff to the Governor of Kogi State, Hon Edward Onoja has called on the people of Igala land to reflect on how underdevelopment was the order of the day in the area in the past until the inception of the present administration of Alhaji Yahaya Bello to give needed attention to some important projects in the vicinity.

 

He stated this while delivering an address at Okpo, the headquarters of Olamaboro Local Government Area of the state at an event to mark the decamping of over 2000 members of PDP, LP and APGA in the council.

 

His speech, which was titled; “Change Took 32 Years and a Stranger!,” detailed how it took Governor Bello to ensure the construction of notable roads in Igala Land, construct electricity projects, sink boreholes, give scholarship and other important gestures to uplift the situation of the people of the area.

 

Here is the full address below:

 

Protocols

Before I continue let say this Loud and Clear without Ambiguity with about 17 of 20 Elected Ward Councillors and 6 of 10 Supervisory Councillors, PDP Zonal Secetary, Former Executive Chairman and Assembly member and his Vice Chairman and other Serving and Ex PDP Executives and thousands of their Supporters and die hard followers Olamaboro it Taken and you can take that to the BANK.

I am excited to welcome everyone here today. This Decamping Ceremony is also doubling as the funeral rites of the PDP and any other political party in Olamaboro, LGA in particular and Kogi East in general. APC has taken over and I will tell you why.

First is that our people voted for the APC in the last Gubernatorial elections. We voted for Change. Late Prince Audu Abubakar, an indisputable Leader in Igalaland and all over Kogi State symbolically received the Baton as APC Flagbearer on August 30th, 2015 during the APC Gubernatorial Primaries at the Confluence Stadium, Lokoja. He ran a great race on behalf of our party, but was not able to complete it. The ways of God are not our ways.

His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Bello was called upon by the APC to complete the race and carry the Divine Mandate as Governor of Kogi State. Truly the ways of God are not our ways. I can assure you as a close aide to the Governor that the future of my boss is heavily pregnant with greatness.

Governor Yahaya Bello also recognises the contributions of our late leader to the victory of the APC in Kogi State. He has taken action to immortalise Adoja’s memory, including bestowing on him the highest honour available during the 25th Anniversary Celebrations of our dear state.

Personally the Late Prince Abubakar Audu was and still is the father whom I worked closely with to Rescue, Restore and Rebuild Kogi in 2011. Today as God would have it, I am working with a Leader, boss and friend who gives me the privilege of calling me his Siamese Twin brother (Ejima ka me ne bi ma ne ke daru).

It is therefore God's Divine Doing that Leadership in Kogi State is in the hands of the Youth today, including the Youth of Olamaboro. It's our duty to discharge it well, to guard and protect it with our lives if need be. And this we will do with God by our side.

Secondly is that many parts of Kogi State, including Kogi East are seeing and feeling more Government presence in the form of projects than we have ever seen before. Government is meant to work for the people, and I will not hesitate to say that the New Direction Administration of Governor Yahaya Bello is working for Kogi People, even more than any other previous Administration.

Let me give us a personal example:

For some reason I never took particular notice of the Ibana-Okpo-Igah Ikeje-Ogugu-Ette Road till I was in secondary school. After I gained admission into Federal Government College, Kwali, Abuja, that road became one of the places I feared most. In fact, if I didn't have to see my parents, I probably would have stopped coming to the village as a child simply to avoid passing through that road. After years of the terrible experience, a picture of that road stuck in my head.

 

For 32 years!

During that 32 years, Kogi State was created and our ‘brothers’ started to rule us. We could no longer blame leaders in Kwara State or Benue State for our problems. Our brothers were in charge, but guess what? For about 20 out of our 26 years as a state, our people ruled our land, but Igah Ikeje Road remained unchanged. The sadder thing was that many of such roads existed in our Local Government Area. In addition, we did not have other infrastructure and utilities. Electricity, portable water, good health centres, and schools were lacking. Olamaboro in general seemed abandoned, without much development.

Then Alhaji Yahaya Bello from Agassa, Okene in Kogi Central became the 4th Executive Governor of Kogi State and construction started on Igah Ikeje Road and many other roads in Olamaboro LGA. Boreholes are being sunk all over. Electricity projects are ongoing. Direct welfare projects (scholarship, business support, foodstuffs, farm inputs, medical help, etc) are reaching people at the grassroots for the very first time ever. Olamaboro, along with much of Kogi State today can feel Government.

I will run us through a list of the projects which the Administration of this man whom many of our people will call a ‘stranger’ or Non Igala has helped to bring to us after just 18 months in office. After the run through, you ll agree with me the rationale behind the “Enemuneme” slogan.

PROJECTS IN OLAMABORO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA BY THE NEW DIRECTION ADMINISTRATION OF HIS EXCELLENCY, GOVERNOR YAHAYA BELLO OF KOGI STATE

(A) YOUTHS EMPOWERMENT/HUMAN CAPACITY BUILDING PROGRAMS:

1. Over 20 Students currently on scholarship in higher institutions  (state ministry of youths and sport).

2. Additional 60 Students to be awarded scholarships to various institutions by Honourable Edward Onoja, the Chief of Staff to the Governor of Kogi State. The selection process is ongoing and 35% of them will be females. The target is to have beneficiaries in all the 6 tertiary institutions in Kogi State as follows:

*10 in Kogi State University.

*10 in Federal University, Lokoja.

*10 in Federal Polytechnic, Idah.

*10 in Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja.

*10 in College of Education, Ankpa.

*10 in Federal College of Education, Okene.

3. Over 200 youths were empowered in various trades and enterprises to grow the economic prospects of Olamaboro LGA.

(B) HEALTH INTERVENTIONS:

Beneficiaries of Governor Bello Health Intervention for indigent patients in Olamaboro LGA:

1. Mr Anthony Sani; Ogugu District; Fracture of the femur.

2. Mr. Daniel Adama; Olamaboro District; Kidney failure.

3. Mr Friday Ikoekwu; Inele Ward; Deformity on the leg.

4. Mr. Ochuman's son; Okpo; Cancer of the face and scalp.

5. 4 wheelchairs to 4 disabled persons in the 3 districts.

6. Purchase of Ambulance to aid movement of patients to General Hospital, Okpo.

7. Free Medical Outreach in Ankpa and Okpo where hundreds benefited from free clinical and surgical care.

8. Rehabilitation of Emonyoku Clinic.

9. Rehabilitation of Cottage Hospital with ongoing construction of staff quarters in Ogugu.

10. Free Healthcare Sensitization and various treatments including surgery carried by Honourable Dr. Ahmed Attah J. and team in Adupi, Ogugu.

11. Free Medical Outreach  in Okpo for hypertensive patients and free eye treatment.

12. Free mosquito net distributed to every household in Olamaboro.

(C) WATER PROJECTS FOR ALL

1. Drilling of borehole in Ochaja Emonyoku polling unit.(Personal)

2. Drilling of borehole in Ogodu Efofe polling unit.(Personal)

3. Drilling of borehole in Ogene Polling unit.(Personal)

4. Drilling of borehole in Sabon Gari-Ogugu Area.(Personal)

5. Drilling of borehole in Egah Orinono polling unit.(Personal)

6. Drilling of borehole in Ojamakogwu polling unit, Okpo. (State).

7. Drilling of borehole in Odidoko Community.(Personal)

8. Drilling of borehole in Emonyoku-Ogo community.(Personal)

9. Drilling of borehole in Agaliga Efabo.(State)

10 Drilling of borehole in Imane centre.

(state)

11. Drilling of borehole in Emagaba.(Personal)

12. Drilling of borehole in Ofa-Okpo.(State)

Some are still ongoing! Many more to follow.

 (D) ELECTRICITY:

*Ongoing feasibility studies for Project Light Up Kogi East which will on completion connect all of Kogi East, including Olamaboro LGA to the federal line in Ajaokuta.

(E) ROAD PROJECTS:

1. Construction of Ibana-Okpo-Igah Ikeje-Ogugu-Ette-Kogi-Enugu border road.

(F) AGRICULTURE:

1. Donation of over 650 bags of fertiliser by the GYB team of appointees from Olamaboro LGA lead by Chief of Staff, Edward Onoja with 5 bags distributed to farmers in each of the 124 polling units in Olamaboro LGA irrespective of party affiliation.

2. 35 among over 120 Olamaboro youths trained by the Administration in various skills majored on crop production, aquaculture, and livestock farming. The Administration is processing their empowerment to start off businesses.

(G) SOCIAL SERVICE FOR UNIONS:

*The Purchase of 4 Sienna buses for National Union of Road Transport Workers, Olamaboro chapter.

*The Purchase of 4 Motorcycles to Okada Union, Olamaboro LGA Chapter.

(H) SOCIAL SERVICE FOR YOUTHS/PARTY APC :

1. Financial support for the take off and stability of APC ladies wing Olamaboro.

2. Financial support for the take off and stability of Olamaboro GYB Youths forum.

3. Financial support for other groups in Olamaboro LGA.

(I) SERVICE TO GOD AND HUMANITY:

1. Construction of Olamaboro Central Mosque Okpo by my friends and I with his Excellency's Approval and support.

2. Payment of N5,000.00 monthly allowance to 60 less privileged persons and widows across the local government.

3. Feeding of widows by the wife of His Excellency, Hajia Rashidat Bello.

4. Distribution of well over 200 units 50kg bags of rice by Honourable Adejoh Nicodemus Friday, the Administrator, Olamaboro LGA to Muslim families across the 124 polling units in Olamaboro during the last Ramadan.

5. The GYB Food Security project on Democracy Day May 29th 2017 distributed N50,000.00, 50 bags of rice and 5 bags of fertiliser to each of the 2,548 polling units in Olamaboro LGA.

SOME KEY AND NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE ADMINISTRATOR

(A). LOCAL GOVERNMENT PROJECT ON ROAD AND STREET OPENING.

1. Dualization of Olamaboro LGA secretariat Road.

2. Okpo Water side Road.

3. Okpo-Alagalani Road.

4. Alagalani- Onugba Uko Road.

5. Okpo-Alah Road.

6. Alah-Agala Road.

7. Agala-Ojuwo Eboyi Road.

8. Okegbe Ate Road Ogugu.

9. Ogene -road Ogugu.

10. Emagaba Ofante Road. Ogugu.

11. Adum-Emagaba 2.

12. Emagaba – Ogbuofe Road.

13. Inabe-Emagaba Road.

14. Ade-Efakpa Road.

15. Efakpa-Imane Road.

16. Ejenumu-Agbaduma Road.

17. Ogugu Centre-Adum Ogbofe Road.

18. Ofante-Amaka Road.

19. Ogugu – Ematokwo Road.

20. Ofa-Awodo Road. Etutekpe

21. Ojamekele – Agaliga Adum Road.

22. Ekpunobe-agaliga Etukwo Road.

23. Okpo – Obele to Eboyi Road.

24. Okpo-township Efuaji Road

25. Education office, God's care mission Road.

26. Okpo – Ofanwa Road.

27. Agbaduma – Akpakpa Road.

28. Akpakpa – Agaliga Etukwo Road.

(B). LOCAL GOVERNMENT PROJECT ON WATER FOR ALL.

(1) Ojamakogu-Okpo Community Drilling of borehole.

(2) Agaliga Efabo community Drilling of borehole.

(C)  LOCAL GOVERNMENT PROJECTS ON HEALTH, HUMANITARIANS.

1. Inauguration of health committee in the local government council.

2. Free surgery for an accident victim Mr Sule from Efofe Imane.

3. Free surgery for one Mr Joseph Okpe from Igah.

4. Payment of bill on child delivery for some mothers.

5. Assistant to law enforcement agents to ease their work (Such support include Accommodation, funding, and creating synergy between them and local Vigilantes for mutuality.

6. Donation of food items, cooking condiments to the widows, orphans, the poor and less privileged especially during festivities.

7. Youth empowerment program(130 youths) initiated by the chief of staff, all GYB appointees both State and local government women and men in different trades with a start up capital.

8. Purchase of Sewing machine for a widow Mrs Isiaka.

(D) General operational and logistical support to Olamaboro Local Government Secretariat and her staff.

Logistics and Financial Support to about 20 students given scholarship by state government to study various courses.

The List is simply Endless

I'll hasten to conclude

My conclusion is that it makes political sense to align with somebody or Group or party that has brought development and welfare to our place. The ‘stranger’ who does more for the welfare of my people is my brother. Governor Yahaya Bello has practically demonstrated more love for Olamaboro LGA in less than 18 months than any other Governor before him, some of whom had more than 8 years. We must not allow any sentiments to rob us of this opportunity.

This is why it makes sense that today, Olamaboro people who used to be in the failed PDP and other parties are today giving their support and loyalty to Governor Yahaya Bello by decamping to the APC.

When you look at the profile and calibre of the persons decamping to join us today, you will understand why I said at the beginning of this address that today is also the funeral ceremony of the failed PDP in Olamaboro LGA. Many of them are leaders and former leaders of that failed party, some of them still in office. I salute the courage and honesty of the decampees. It is good to do what is right and shame the devil.

I will not end today without thanking the Almighty God for the life of our President, His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The devil tried to cut short the Change Agenda which Baba Maigaskiya is instituting in Nigeria, but God has defeated him for the sake of the poor masses of this country. We pray that the Almighty will continue to sustain our President, our Governor and all us with long life, excellent health and enduring prosperity.

If there is anyone who is a role model for our Governor, it is our President. Alhaji Yahaya Bello is one of the foremost disciples of the Buhari School of Leadership which is why he tries his best to govern Kogi State with the fear of God and utmost integrity. His Excellency, Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State could not make it here today because of pressing matters of state in Abuja. He has gone to seek audience with the President for the benefit of Kogi People.

Though absent in person today, the Governor is present with us in spirit. He supports what we are doing and he asked me to convey his best regards to this august gathering and the entire Olamaboro LGA. He wishes Olamaboro to know how much he values their support. He promises to complete every project he has commenced, not just in Olamaboro, but all over the state. And he promises to start and finish even more PROJECTS for us.

I end by repeating my favourite maxim: ‘The man who develops my place and provides for the welfare of my people is my brother.’

I thank everyone for coming today.

God bless you.

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