Kogi COS speaks on Comr. Nihi's visit, says 'Bello is Governor, leader of all' »

It has been brought to my notice that there has been some misunderstanding in the media space and amongst supporters due to a recent decision I made. I would have decided to keep mute as usual but at times, silence may be tantamount to acceptance of blame or wrongdoing.

As the Chief of Staff to His Excellency, Governor Yahaya Bello, a very important part of my job is to take pressure away from my principal and the system by winning and making more friends for the system.

Comrade Oladele Nihi is one of us who worked against the decision of the system in the past and even went as far as to engage in destructive criticism. As condemnable as that was, in recent times, he has realized his mistakes and has decided to take steps in redeeming his image. I have been on talking terms with him, pleading for a chance to meet His Excellency to tender an apology, having realized that he made mistakes in the past. If I decided to make a way for him to apologize to our leader, I don’t see anything wrong that should warrant any outrage.

Even God Almighty the creator of the universe encourages us to seek forgiveness at all times for our sins. Why then should anyone be offended when one of us who went astray decided to seek forgiveness and come back home?

Just recently, we witnessed APC Governors gracing the birthday occasion of the former president, Goodluck Jonathan. We have seen political rivals share laughter and jokes in social spaces. This is a display of maturity and true leadership. Politics does not mean we create permanent enemies, when interest aligns, we must reconsider.

If Sen. Dino Melaye and others who are known political rivals decide to redeem make amends, extend hands of friendship, and sought to make peace with His Excellency, I will gladly create an avenue for them to meet His Excellency.

As a leader, Governor Yahaya Bello is a Governor of all and a leader of all. He means well for all of us, and I am striving to uphold that. It is time to do all that is within our power to bring peace and unity to our dear state which is my core mandate as the Chief of Staff.

When you forgive, you set a prisoner free, and that prisoner is you! His Excellency is a man of grace and a peace advocate. As his Chief of Staff, I have to create an atmosphere of peace for His Excellency to thrive.

Thank you.

Pharm. Abdulkareem Mohd Jamiu.
Chief of Staff to Gov Yahaya Bello