Just as the saying goes that “a golden fish has no hidden habitat”. Dr Usman Ogbo of preserved memory is one of the greatest blessings of God upon Kogi state and the Nigerian educational sector. But, bearing in mind that prophets are never celebrated in their homes. I received the news of his untimely and alleged politically motivated removal as the
dean, student affairs of the Kogi state university Anyigba as normal and one of the envisaged highhandedness of a system dominated with calumnious, insensitive, inexperienced, aggressive and intolerant minds.
For those who know and to set the record straight, the most foolish and clueless decision of any authority is to sack a man fondly described as a ” student lecturer” from such a sensitive position. The oxymoron emanated from his spirited commitment to students welfare likewise his adept administrative and academic repute. His charismatic
leadership is unrivaled among his contemporaries and therefore, a progressive mind wouldn’t be a able to fathom a palaver that could warrant his fate. Nonetheless, his intimidating profile of vast network within and outside the school calls for concern for him to be relieved of such an appointment at times like now.
Whatever be the case, it is disheartening for such a news to break at a time and under a government that has described itself as new direction from recycling of the old class. While favoritism might not be an ideal way for the government to exemplify its no none sense leverages. Except, the development is preplanned at the “top”, the
government must swing into action, investigate and order the reinstatement of this rare gem with uncommon credentials. That could also be a form of belated thank you for his erstwhile intentional transfer of service from federal to state (Uni Ilorin-KSU) solely for the betterment of our beloved Kogi state.
In fact, the youthful doc who will is clocking 38 by October has a natural virtue of rising higher at every exit in his careers. So, it is laughable of the raven that conspired this action not to have bear in mind the following progression order of Dr Usman. At departmental level; he served as academic boars secretary-project coordinator-Exam
officer-post graduate coordinator, a post he willingly resigned on becoming the Head of Department(PolSci). Worthy of note also are his hitherto services to the university as member of several committee, deputy director of general studies, several association staff adviser, acting director of general studies till his appointment as dean, student affairs.
Therefore, the exit of this principled patriot cum fearless academician is worthy of applause irrespective of the surrounding circumstance. Let all those within the spheres of duty emulate the exemplary lifestyle of this dogged fellow whom have been privileged to receive several awards and recommendation from student unions, non
governmental organizations, his host university management and professional bodies. Hence, his ordeal is the “exit of a colossus”.
One thing is for sure, whenever a Viber sinks into the sea, it rises with a Pearl***Cheer up and get ready for a greater accomplishment Dr Usman Ogbo.
Long Live KSU,
Long Live Kogi State,
Long Live Federal Republic of Nigeria.
– Comrade A. M. Nasir
naadejohs@gmail.com
