Olu Samuel
There was jubilation and emotional celebration in Obehira-Uvete, Okene Local Government Area of Kogi Stateon Friday as ‘My People First’ Foundation officially handed over a fully furnished four-bedroom bungalow to a widow, Mama Salametu Shaibu, in commemoration this year’s Democracy day.
The historic event drew prominent dignitaries, government officials, traditional rulers, religious leaders, youths, women groups, and members of the community who gathered to witness what many described as “a practical demonstration of compassion, unity, and service to humanity.”
The foundation, under the leadership of Hajiya Aishat Oyiza Omade, transformed the painful story of a struggling widow into a symbol of hope, restoration, and the true spirit of democracy where the welfare of the people remains paramount.
Mama Salametu Shaibu had earlier gained public attention after a viral appeal revealed her harsh living condition in a severely dilapidated house, where she reportedly cried for help just to get food to eat.
Moved by her situation, My People First Foundation adopted the project in March 2026 with a promise to provide her with a decent home and a better life.
Just months later, that promise became reality as the foundation completed and furnished a modern four-bedroom bungalow for the widow.
The state Commissioner for Works, Hon. Taiye Abanika, who represented the governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo praised the foundation for complementing government efforts in improving the welfare of vulnerable citizens.
” The gesture from the “My people first is a significant milestone that complement government efforts to help alleviate the suffering of our windows”.
The project was officially commissioned by renowned philanthropist and Islamic scholar Sheikh Abdulrahman Khalifa Okene alongside Dr. Abdullahi Ozomata.
Community members, especially youths and traditional rulers, expressed deep appreciation to the foundation for bringing relief and dignity to one of their own.
They described the intervention as “unprecedented and a shining example of true humanitarian service.”
Several guests commended Hajiya Aishat Oyiza Omade for her consistency in supporting widows, the aged, and vulnerable persons through people-centered interventions across Kogi State.
“As Nigeria marks another Democracy Day celebration, the donation of the furnished bungalow stands as a strong symbol of unity, love, compassion, inclusion, and shared responsibility toward nation-building.
The gesture reflects the true ideals of democracy, A system where the wellbeing of the people, especially the vulnerable, remains a collective priority.” Oyiza Omade said while speaking at the event.
She said that “the successful commissioning of the bungalow further reinforces the growing impact of ‘My People First’ Foundation in areas of humanitarian service, social welfare, empowerment, food security, and care for vulnerable members of society.
The foundation’s Democracy Day intervention also serves as a reminder that sustainable democracy thrives where love, empathy, justice, and support for humanity are encouraged” She noted.