Yahaya Bello Attends 40th Day Prayer for Late Senator Obaro in Okene »

.Says his life exemplified integrity, discipline

Former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, joined members of the Obaro family, political leaders, traditional rulers, and residents of Kogi Central at the 40th day prayer ceremony held in honour of the late Senator Isa Abonyi Obaro in Okene.

The solemn religious event, observed in accordance with local customs and faith traditions, was organised to pray for the repose of the soul of the departed statesman and to reflect on his life, values, and enduring contributions to public service and community development.

The ceremony drew a large turnout of mourners from within and outside Kogi State, highlighting the wide respect and influence the late senator commanded during his lifetime.

Senator Isa Abonyi Obaro was a distinguished political leader, elder statesman, and astute legal practitioner, who belonged to the first set of lawyers from Northern Nigeria, a pioneering achievement that placed him among the early architects of legal practice in the region.

He represented Kogi Central Senatorial District (Okene/Okehi) in the Nigerian Senate during the Second Republic from 1979 to 1983, where he was known for principled leadership, effective representation, and strong advocacy for his constituents.

Before his tenure in the Senate, Senator Obaro served with distinction in the old Kwara State Government, where he was appointed Commissioner for Information, Commissioner for Finance, and later Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice under the administration of Brigadier David Bamgboye.

In these roles, he was widely respected for his intellectual depth, administrative competence, and commitment to transparency and good governance.

While paying his respects, former Governor Yahaya Bello described the late senator as a trailblazer whose contributions laid a solid foundation for political leadership, legal practice, and public service in Kogi Central and beyond.

He noted that Senator Obaro’s life exemplified integrity, discipline, and selfless service, values that remain relevant to governance today.

The prayer ceremony was attended by serving and former political office holders, party leaders, traditional and community stakeholders, youth representatives, and religious leaders, who offered tributes celebrating the senator’s legacy of humility, professionalism, and dedication to the welfare of his people.

Prayers were offered for the peaceful repose of his soul and for divine comfort and strength for his immediate family, the people of Kogi Central, and all those he served during his years in public office.

Senator Isa Abonyi Obaro passed on at the age of 91, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of legal excellence, political leadership, and unwavering commitment to the socio-political advancement of his community.

His life and work continue to inspire generations of leaders across Kogi State and Nigeria at large.

Ohiare Michael,
Director, Yahaya Bello Media Office.
10th January, 2026