Hon. Aliyu Ogido Haruna has been inaugurated as the new Executive Chairman, a position that many believe he is uniquely suited for, earning him the reputation as a “round peg in a round hole.”
With a wealth of knowledge amassed during his years as a dedicated classroom teacher, Ogido’s journey truly exemplifies the notion that educators possess invaluable wisdom. His teaching career reached its highest level, where he retired as director before he transitioned into politics, guided by a passion for serving his community.
Hon Ogido was previously appointed as Caretaker Chairman by former Governor Yahaya Bello, and he demonstrated his leadership capabilities during his brief six-month tenure. His leadership came during a transitional period that saw Governor Usman Ahmed Ododo assume office, further allowing Ogido to contribute under the guidance of two Governors in a notably short span.
Ogido’s tenure as Caretaker Chairman was marked by impressive accomplishments, particularly in the realm of security. A standout achievement was the formation of a joint security force—an initiative that saw him lead a daring operation into the hideouts of criminals in the region.
It was a more than 4-hour mission which effectively ambushed a group of kidnappers and armed robbers in the bush, leading to their dislodgment and some were killed at a fire exchange. Thanks to this courageous approach, the security landscape of Ajaokuta has dramatically improved, with a notable absence of kidnapping and robbery incidents along major roads and boundaries.
In addition to enhancing security, Hon. Ogido has actively promoted Governor Ododo’s welfare policies within the Ajaokuta Local Government, fostering a sense of hope and opportunity among the residents. His track record of effective governance and commitment to the people did not go unnoticed, culminating in a resounding victory as the Executive Chairman.
The election process was marked by peaceful competition, with Ogido winning decisively against opposition candidates, reflecting the people’s confidence and aspiration for effective leadership.
Today, as Ogido takes up his new mantle, the people of Ajaokuta celebrate a new dawn of leadership. The expectations of the community have aligned with the outcome of the election, and there is palpable excitement for the progress that lies ahead. With Hon. Aliyu Ogido Haruna at the helm of affairs “it’s a round peg in a round hole.
– Abdulhameed Ivavah writes from Ajaokuta.
