While many slept in comfort and uncertainty, Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello (GYB) stood almost alone at a defining moment in our history. With courage, conviction, and personal resources, he mobilized influential stakeholders across the state, confronted formidable opposition, and remained unwavering in his determination to liberate the Ebira people from decades of political marginalization.
Many of us are old enough to remember those difficult days. We all lived through an era when some openly mocked our aspirations, arrogantly proclaiming that even their “mad men” would govern the state before an Ebira son could ever ascend the highest office. It was a painful reminder of how little value was attached to our collective dreams and identity.
Yet, GYB refused to surrender to intimidation. He confronted the storm when others sought shelter. He walked into the fire when many feared the consequences. The threats were real, the resistance was fierce, and the dangers were immense. There were moments when people genuinely feared for his life, believing that powerful forces would stop him at all costs. Nevertheless, he chose to stake everything for the advancement and emancipation of his people.
By the grace of Almighty God, what seemed impossible became possible. What appeared unattainable became reality. Against all odds, he emerged victorious and secured a place in history.
His commitment did not end with his tenure. In the face of intense political pressure and countless threats, he ensured the continuity of that vision by supporting the emergence of His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, thereby preserving and strengthening the political gains achieved for our people.
Today, many are enjoying the shade of a tree they did not plant. Yet, we must never forget who planted that tree, watered it with sacrifice, protected it through adversity, and nurtured it into maturity. The benefits we enjoy today did not happen by chance; they are the fruits of courage, resilience, and strategic leadership.
This is why the current moment calls for reflection and gratitude.
Where are the beneficiaries of this struggle? Where are those whose fortunes changed dramatically? Where are those who rose from obscurity to prominence? Where are those who moved from modest means to positions of influence, comfort, and affluence? This is the time to stand up and be counted.
Loyalty is most meaningful when demonstrated in difficult times. Gratitude is most valuable when expressed through action. Those who have benefited from this political liberation owe a moral obligation to support and defend the legacy that created opportunities for them.
If we abandon the foundation that elevated us, we risk weakening the very structure that sustains us. If we stand together, however, we preserve not only a legacy but also the future of generations yet unborn.
This is a wake-up call to every son and daughter of Ebiraland. History is watching. Posterity is recording. The choices we make today will become the judgment of tomorrow.
May Almighty God guide our hearts, grant us wisdom, deepen our understanding, and allow His will to prevail in a manner that brings peace, unity, and progress to our people.
The time to reciprocate goodwill is now.
– Alhaji Akonyi Ibrahim writes From Okene, Kogi State.
