Olu Samuel, Lokoja
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, on Wednesday received a delegation from the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, to offer condolences over the passing of the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, Dr Ado Ibrahim.
This was contained in a statement issued late Wednesday night by the Chief press secretary to the governor, Onogwu Mohammed.
According to him, “during the visit, the Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Abubakar Yahaya, who led the delegation, delivered a letter of condolence to the governor, commiserating with him, the government, and good people of Kogi State, on the passing of Dr Ado Ibrahim.
Governor Bello expressed his gratitude to the delegation for sympathising with the people of Ebiraland and the government of Kogi State, as well as for taking the time to pay a condolence visit.
He praised the late Ohinoyi, HRM Ado Ibrahim, for his impactful and exemplary life, stating, “I want to sincerely thank you for finding it worthy to commiserate with us and also finding time to pay a condolence visit. Late Ado Ibrahim, the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, Sa’aki, lived well and made a huge impact in the lives of his people during his time. While he was alive, we had a father and son relationship because we come from the same lineage.
“Our late royal father’s mother and my grandfather were of the same parents, so the demise of His Royal Majesty is a personal loss to me.”
Governor Bello also reiterated his administration’s commitment to prioritising the welfare of traditional rulers in the state, a policy he assured would be continued by his successor.
He emphasised the harmonious coexistence and collaboration between the government and traditional rulers in Kogi State for the greater good of the people.
Furthermore, Governor Bello highlighted the positive relationships that the late Ohinoyi had fostered with the Sultan of Sokoto and all traditional rulers in Nigeria.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, the Etsu Nupe conveyed the condolences of the Sultan and the entire Northern Traditional Council Chiefs to the governor, offering prayers for the peaceful repose of late Ohinoyi’s soul.
He commended Governor Bello for establishing and maintaining a strong relationship with traditional rulers and particularly highlighted the priority the governor placed on the welfare of traditional rulers in Kogi State.
The delegation said during their visit to the deceased’s family in Okene on Monday, they were briefed about the government’s support to the family and commended the governor for his care, love, and respect for the traditional institution.