By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja
The Kogi State Auditor-General for Local Governments, Hon. Yakubu Adabenege, has empowered 27 residents and distributed wrappers to 300 elderly people in Ege/Iruvochinomi Ward of Okene Local Government Area as part of efforts to promote grassroots development and community welfare.
Adabenege made the gesture during a visit to the ward to celebrate the recent elevation of one of its prominent sons, Dr. Suberu Yusuf John, from Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to Special Adviser (SA) to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo on Road Safety Matters.
He said the empowerment was intended to complement the initiatives of Yusuf-John, whom he described as “a gift” to Ege/Iruvochinomi Ward, the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led administration and the people of Kogi State.
“The financial empowerment and distribution of wrappers to the indigenes of Ege/Iruvochinomi Ward is my own way of complementing the empowerment programmes of Dr Yusuf-John,” Adabenege said.
The Auditor-General commended residents of the ward for their support for the Ododo administration and the APC, particularly ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He also pledged to convey their demands for employment opportunities, political appointments, elective positions, further empowerment and improved access to potable water to the governor for consideration.
Adabenege expressed confidence in Governor Ododo’s commitment to inclusive governance and grassroots development, urging residents to sustain their support for the administration.
Responding, Yusuf-John expressed appreciation to Adabenege, whom he described as his leader and mentor, saying his political and public service career had benefited greatly from his guidance and support.
He prayed for God’s continued protection, wisdom, good health and greater elevation for the Auditor-General.
The Special Adviser also commended Governor Ododo for the ongoing road project in the community and for his appointment, noting that residents were equally appreciative of the elevation of other indigenes to various government positions.
The August visit, which attracted APC leaders, traditional and religious rulers, community leaders, youths, women and other stakeholders, provided an opportunity for residents to engage directly with government representatives on issues affecting the ward.
Among those present were the APC State Chairman, Engr. Momoh Aliyu Ezzu; Special Adviser to the Governor on Electronic Media, Hon. Yusuf Adebayo Ohiare; Special Adviser on Media, Hon. Ismaila Isah; members of the Kogi State House of Assembly; government appointees; party executives and community stakeholders, among others.