Your Excellency,
Nwao Sir,
I write to you as one of your brothers, a committed party member who has been actively involved in the 2016 “New Direction” struggle to date. I am one of your ardent supporters who actively participated in your 2023 governorship campaign through the “Ododo Youth O’clock Mandate Support Group” in the 2023 general elections. I have observed your administration from afar in the last two years and have finally summoned the courage to extend this open letter to you appraising where I think you have done well and where needs to be addressed.
Recently, I came across an impressive piece about you from one of the National dailies—Daily Trust. This article titled “Gombe 2027: Governor Inuwa Yahaya’s Search for a New Ododo” described you as a “symbolic benchmark” of loyalty in the Nigerian modern-day politics. I felt a sense of pride to read about one of our own.
Truly, there is no doubt that you have demonstrated an incredible loyalty to your predecessor, a remarkable one that is highly commendable. But beyond crowning you as the benchmark of loyalty, there are certain areas within your administration that you need to address to achieve an A1 score across the board.
To be fair, you began your term positively by addressing the shortcomings of your predecessor and building upon his achievements. You have prioritised the welfare of Kogi State workers by ensuring prompt salary payments, implementing the new minimum wage, establishing and improving key infrastructural facilities throughout the state and embarking on social and economic investment schemes aimed at supporting households and businesses in the state. Nevertheless, there are a few sentiments and concerns I wish to bring to your attention.
Ego Vs Service: The High-Handed Approach of Some Appointees
Your administration has been marked by the high-handed conduct of some of your appointees, who many believe are either acting on your instructions or have probably become so powerful that you can no longer control their excesses or issue instructions.
The continuous practice of arresting critics of your government and detaining them for months without a fair trial has drawn widespread public condemnation and threatens to undermine the achievements of your administration.
One of such instances is the recent case involving the state accountant general, and an All Progressive Congress (APC) supporter, Abdulhameed over a defamatory post he made on social media.
Your Excellency, you need to understand that this recent issue appears to be the first time your government will be criticised this much and there is a need to be cautious and pay attention to the rising voice of dissidents.
Because you have managed to establish a leadership style that portrays you as someone committed to bringing joy to the lives of your people, earning you the nickname “The Chief Servant” of Kogi State.
It would be a great disservice to your efforts if you continue to allow your government continue to engage in actions that could cast you as a callous leader who is out of sync with the people.
Let’s Talk About The Rising Cases of Felele’s Fatal Legacy
A series of fatal accidents has happened at the popular Felele highway claiming lots of lives. Since you assumed office, over four cases of road traffic crashes have been reported at the Felele highway and over 23 lives have been reportedly lost on this route
These events have attracted public outcry each time they occur. It will be recalled that your government recently established a road safety advisory council tasked to address the incessant accidents along the Felele highway, This was followed by the signing of an executive bill to restrict the movement of heavy trucks during the peak hours on the Felele highway.
Your Excellency Sir, it appears, this bill is still yet to be implemented till now. It is our wish that it doesn’t take another tragic accident claiming lives before we are reminded to do the needful. I am appealing that you expedite action on the implementation of this bill, as we have already lost too many lives on this road and cannot afford to lose any more.
Mixed Signals: Infighting Threatening Kogi APC’s Credibility
The recent suspension of your Special Adviser on Multimedia and Conception, Hon. Nda Aaron by the APC Ward A executive committee was a poorly calculated action capable of sending a wrong signal to the National party executives and the presidency. It is expected that a party like the All Progressives Congress having one of their own as the Governor of the state should have a well-coordinated house.
Beyond this reason, the current political state of play demands a thorough and strategic approach to ensure a successful outcome in the coming election.
An unpredictable storm is currently brewing in Nigeria and the Kogi State Political atmosphere, with the resurgence of the African Democratic Party (ADC), where many opposition political figures seem to have camped, the opposition is vehemently mobilising, and whispers of rebellion are echoing within your party. The Faleke camp has been rumoured to be making moves to wrest power from you in the coming election.
This has further made the APC’s internal fault lines to appear more pronounced. All these factors when considered is one of the reasons why you must put your house in order and not allow sending off a signal that will put the credibility and cohesion of Kogi State All Progressive Congress in doubt.
Disengage, Not Engage: Kogi Govt’s Role in Natasha-Akpabio Spat
“It is said that a strong leader isn’t measured by the absence of opposition, but by their ability to build bridges with those who differ”
The involvement of the Kogi State Government in the feud between the Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Barr. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and the Senate President, Sen. Godswill Akpabio were an obvious one and I am alarmed of the ripple effect it can manifest come the 2027 election.
There is need for you to reduce your enemies and avoid actions that is capable of making it difficult to build bridge with your perceived opponent when it matters most.
Empower the Local Government Chairmen to Act Independently.
The removal of the fuel subsidy has allowed for an increase in the state’s monthly allocation from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC).
It was expected that this increased revenue would positively impact the lives of people at the grassroots level; however, living conditions for many remain poor, with little reason for hope.
There is a noticeable lack of activity from the Local Government Chairmen. None have been able to successfully execute even basic projects, such as installing boreholes or constructing drainage systems.
Local Government is the closest tier of government to the people, and it is essential that these local leaders are empowered to directly improve the lives of our residents.
It is expected that every Local Government Chairman under your administration should be able to implement initiatives similar to your government’s social investment schemes in order to mitigate the harsh economic effects on our communities. This will reduce the burden on your shoulder and as well multiply the goodwill of the people towards your administration.
Enhance Support Initiatives for Women and Youth
In recent years, we have witnessed various empowerment projects designed specifically for women and youth initiated by your government. However, the prevailing harsh economic conditions have taken a toll on countless families, underscoring an urgent need to expand social investment initiatives aimed at alleviating their struggles.
Given the crucial role that women and youth often play during election campaigns, prioritising policies that uplift and empower these groups is essential. By doing so, we can foster a more resilient community and ensure that the women and youths has the opportunity to thrive in the current challenging economic situation.
Final Thoughts: Let’s Do More
I vividly recall the compelling slogan from the 2019 campaign of your predecessor, Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello: “Let’s Do More.” This powerful phrase resonated deeply within our people, evoking feelings of hope and unwavering commitment. It was a message that our people embraced with both joy and a sense of relief, signifying a renewed belief in a brighter future.
Your own campaign slogan was a simple yet powerful one coined as “continuality”. As you proceed with your administration, I urge you to build upon the legacy of commitment by your predecessor to the people of Kogi State. Two years is a significant span, an opportunity to instigate meaningful change and truly transform lives. It’s time to take decisive action and inspire progress. We must strive to do more for our people, ensuring that their hopes and aspirations are met with tangible results. Together, let us work hand in hand to uplift Kogi State and fulfill the promise of a better tomorrow.
I wish you well, Your Excellency Sir.
Respectfully,
Amb. Aliyu Mahmud
