Long before titles and offices, Engr. Abubakar Mohamned Bashir Gegu was a force in Kogi Local Government Known for his energy, fearlessness and generosity.
In a time of rising insecurity, he personally joined — and later led — a local vigilante group, battling kidnappers deep in the bushes of Igu Koton karfe Kingdom.
His courageous stand earned him the traditional title “Ondakireku of Igu kingdom,” a lasting testament to his daring spirit and devotion to community safety.
These early struggles forged his resilience and tied him closely to the grassroots, laying the foundation for the leadership journey that would follow.
In 2018, Bashir Gegu contested as the PDP candidate for Lokoja/Koton karfe Federal Constituency by-election after the demise of Late Alhaji Buba Jibril.
At that time, the political atmosphere was charged with uncertainty and ambition.
As the flag-bearer of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Bashir Gegu stood boldly against Alhaji Idris Haruna of the newly formed All Progressives Congress (APC).
His candidacy reignited the dream of redress for many who had grown weary under years of political imbalance.
Even in the face of heavy financial inducements and political intimidation, a loyal band of supporters, motivated by the conviction of justice, stood firm behind him with the slogan “Redress’2018”.
The election was tense and chaotic, culminating in a painful setback as APC’s candidate Alhaji Haruna Isah won with 26,860 votes against Bashir Gegu’s 14,845 votes.
Rather than retreat, Bashir gegu recalibrated and realigned himself with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and forged a strong partnership with Former Governor Yahaya Bello — the “White Lion” of Africa.
He made a courageous and strategic move by defecting to the APC, a decision that redefined his political path.
Thus began a formidable alliance between the White Lion and the Dark Horse — a partnership anchored on mutual trust, shared vision and commitment to the betterment of Kogi State.
By the 2019 general elections, He had emerged as one of Bello’s most trusted grassroots mobilizers.
During the turbulent 2019 general elections, when internal party struggles and external threats reached their peak, Bashir Gegu’s leadership shone brightly.
He publicly praised Governor Bello’s infrastructure achievements and the passionate leadership of Bello’s deputy, Edward Onoja, declaring that “Kogi is safer in the hands of the Governor.”
Serving as the Returning Officer for Kogi Local Government, he played a pivotal role in safeguarding the electoral process and ensuring a resounding victory for the APC.
His dedication and exceptional handling of the election earned him admiration across the political landscape. It was clear to all that he was not just another politician, but a rising star destined for greater responsibilities.
After Bello’s victory was upheld by the Supreme Court, he, celebrated fiercely, urging even his former opponents to unite behind the government for the good of the state.
In recognition of his loyalty and capacity, Former Governor Bello appointed him on January 29, 2020, as the pioneer Commissioner for Solid Minerals and Natural Resources, Kogi state.
From that moment, Hon. Bashir Gegu had a new mission; to unlock Kogi’s underground wealth and Under his leadership, the state secured dozens of mining licenses, procured heavy-duty equipment and officially launched itself into Nigeria’s league of mineral producing states.
At the unveiling of the new machinery, Bashir gegu outlined a bold vision: Kogi, blessed with gold, lithium, limestone, coal and over 30 other resources, would no longer depend solely on federal allocations. “Being a major player in the mining sector requires equipment, laws and policies,” he said confidently. “We are prepared to meet these requirements.”
The Ministry of Solid Minerals quickly became a cornerstone of Kogi’s economic future, driven by Bashir Gegu’s blend of courage, technical expertise and political savvy.
Despite his growing stature, Bashir Gegu remained deeply rooted in grassroots service.
He consistently led initiatives like free medical outreaches, empowerment grants for women, scholarships for students and clean-water projects for rural communities.
In June 2024, he organized a major free medical outreach across Koton karfe, winning accolades from youth groups who hailed him as “a dogged fighter and humane leader.”
At every town hall meeting and gathering, Bashir Gegu’s message was simple yet powerful – “The secret for every progressive to prosper is loyalty and capacity.”
His life continues to embody that motto.
He transformed his office into a platform for genuine service to the people. Under his stewardship, Kogi Local Government witnessed a level of development and attention previously unseen.
He facilitated the upgrading of traditional stools, thereby restoring honor and dignity to the custodians of the people’s heritage.
He championed the construction of an ultra-modern referral hospital, providing critical healthcare access to countless families.
Communities were electrified through his donation of transformers, and hope was restored to many through his tireless efforts to secure pensionable jobs, appointments, and elective opportunities for young people.
In times of disaster, such as the floods, He stood with the people, providing relief materials, paying hospital bills, and covering school fees for many who otherwise would have been left hopeless.
No commissioner from Kogi Local Government before him had left such a wide-reaching and positive impact. He seamlessly redefined what it means to serve the people, proving that political office is a sacred trust and not merely an avenue for personal enrichment.
Though human imperfections are inevitable, his devotion to duty, accessibility, and courage continue to set him apart as a true servant leader.
It was no surprise, therefore, that when the baton of leadership was passed to His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo on 27th January, 2024, he retained Bashir Gegu in his role as Commissioner for Solid Minerals — a rare continuity that spoke volumes about his reputation for steady, effective leadership.
Shortly afterward, on recommendation from Governor Ododo, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed Bashir Gegu as Chairman of Kogi State’s chapter of the National Resources and Environmental Management Committee (MIREMCO), giving him an expanded federal role overseeing mining and environmental policies.
It was a full-circle moment; from grassroots warrior to a key architect of Kogi’s economic transformation.
From the bruising campaigns of 2018 to the corridors of power from 2020 to date, Engr. Bashir Abubakar Bashir Gegu’s journey has been defined by resilience, loyalty and an unwavering commitment to service.
His unwavering loyalty to the party, deep understanding of governance, and love for his people remain his greatest strengths as he continues to serve in the new administration.
Today, Hon. Engr. Abubakar Bashir Gegu stands tall as a pillar of grassroots empowerment, a symbol of perseverance, and a bridge between aspiration and reality.
He continues to empower ordinary Kogites with jobs, healthcare, infrastructure and hope.
A fitting legacy for a leader who rose from the streets of Gegu via Kogi/Koton Karfe without ever forgetting where he came from.
As he puts it sometimes ago, ”We have the necessary machinery for the continued growth of the state.”
His journey is a powerful testimony that faith, Loyalty & Resilience will always triumph.
As the story of Kogi state and specifically Kogi/Koton Karfe political evolution is written, the name “Bashir Gegu” will be forever engraved as one who rose, served, and left an indelible mark on the sands of time.
– Abdulkadir Bin ABDULMALIK
Kogi Local Government,
Kogi State.
