When I watched your video pledging unalloyed loyalty to Yahaya Bello, the former Governor, I knew it was not out of place. You believed that Bello loves you so much that he brought you to continue from where he stopped. But let me tell you this: Bello knows among his people who bought the forms; he knows you as the only one he can push around. For that reason, you are his better choice. He never brought you to do better than him, or to earn a good name, or to break his nonexistent good record. He brought you to cover up his many atrocities. Saying your loyalty is to Bello shows that you are on the path to betraying the masses. Forget how he manipulated the election that favored you.
Today, you are the governor, and I can’t dispute that. But as the governor of the state, you are now encircled with the burdens of loyalty, either to the people where you will end up as a good guy or to Yahaya Bello where you will end up worse than him.
The former Governor may have had his time in office, but now it is Usman Ododo’s turn to lead. He should not be afraid to make decisions that may differ from those of the former Governor if he believes they are in the best interest of the people of Kogi state.
It is important for Usman Ododo to remember that his loyalty should lie with the people of the state, not with any individual, including the former Governor. He has the power to correct the mistakes made by the previous government, and he should seize this opportunity to do so.
The example of Borno state, where the incumbent Governor allowed the new Governor to bring a breath of fresh air, should be followed by Usman Ododo. He should not be afraid to implement new policies and initiatives that can benefit the entire state, regardless of any previous affiliations.
As the chief executive of Kogi state, Usman Ododo should remember that he is the boss of the state today. His decisions should be based on what is best for the entire state, taking into consideration the needs and aspirations of all its regions, from the East to the West and Central.
It is time for Usman Ododo to show boldness and independence in his leadership. He should not be constrained by the shadow of the former Governor, but rather focus on the present and future of Kogi state.
As the former local government auditor, you know well that your friend, the former Governor of Kogi state, did not prioritize the payment of full salaries to the workers of the state, despite an increase in state allocation. This raises questions about his leadership and management of state resources. It is important for Usman Ododo, as the current Governor, to address this issue and ensure that workers receive their full salaries as they deserve.
As a Governor from Kogi central, Usman Ododo has the opportunity to set an example and demonstrate good leadership. He should focus on uniting the state and promoting men of integrity, rather than promoting miscreants or individuals involved in criminal activities. It is crucial for him to prioritize the welfare of workers and pensioners, ensuring they receive their entitlements in a timely manner.
Capacity building should also be a priority for Usman Ododo’s administration. Workers should be rewarded based on their level and grades, and local governments should have the financial capacity to engage in projects that benefit their communities. It is important to avoid the misuse of funds that occurred under the previous administration, where local government funds were allegedly misappropriated.
Engaging critical stakeholders and listening to public opinion is crucial for effective governance. Usman Ododo should be open to gathering ideas and feedback from the people of Kogi state. If he takes any wrong steps, it is the responsibility of the citizens to hold him accountable through democratic means.
In summary, Usman Ododo has the opportunity to correct the mistakes of the previous administration and demonstrate good leadership. He should prioritize the payment of full salaries, the welfare of workers and pensioners, and engage in capacity building. It is important for him to listen to public opinion and make necessary amendments when needed.
Usman Okai Austin CCA
Writes from Abuja
