By Muslimat Itopa
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has paid a condolence visit to the family of the late Hon. James Omachonu Ignatius Onoja, Special Adviser to the Governor on Security for Idah Federal Constituency, at Akpata Ega in Igalamela/Odolu Local Government Area of the state.
During the visit, Governor Ododo described the death of the late Security Adviser as a personal loss and a great shock, noting that the deceased was not only a trusted aide but also a close friend and brother.
“I am here in deep shock. I have lost my friend, my brother, and my colleague,” the governor said. “We are here to condole with the family and to let them know that they are not alone. He was a man of peace, unity, loyalty, and sincerity, who served with dedication.”
Governor Ododo recalled that the late James Onoja served the state in various capacities, including as a Local Government Chairman, and remained committed to the service of his people throughout his career.
“He was a man of his word, someone who believed strongly in service to humanity. Though he is gone, his legacy of commitment and selfless service will remain with us,” the governor added, while praying for the repose of his soul.
The Governor announced that the Kogi State Government would accord the late security adviser a Befitting burial, describing his death as a loss not only to the family but to the entire state.
“The family is my family. His children are my children. True friendship is proven not only when a person is alive but even more after he is gone,” Governor Ododo said.
He further assured the family of continued government support and urged them not to feel abandoned, stressing that leadership is about service and humility.
“I have signed up to serve the people of Kogi State, and I will continue to do so in their best interest,” the governor emphasized.
Earlier, the Chairman of Igalamela/ Odolu Local Government Area described the late James Onoja as a sincere and selfless public servant who gave his best to his people.
He thanked the governor for cutting short his schedule to personally visit the family.
“It was with rude shock that we received the news of his untimely death,” the chairman said. “When I spoke with Your Excellency, I could hear the pain in your voice. Your presence here today shows the depth of love you had for our brother.”
Speaking on behalf of the family, an uncle of the deceased, Mr. Sunday Onoja, expressed appreciation to the Kogi State Government for recognizing the contributions of the late James Onoja.
“The vacuum created by his departure will be very difficult to fill,” he said, while commending Governor Ododo for the visit and support.
In a related development, Governor Ododo also paid a condolence visit to the family of the late Onimisi Jatto Suleiman Senior Special Assistant to the governor.
Governor Ododo urged the family to take solace in the fact that the deceased lived a fulfilled life, reminding them that God gives and takes.
“Do not wallow in self-pity. God has done what is best,” the governor said, while offering prayers for the deceased and words of comfort to the family.
Responding on behalf of the family, the wife of the deceased, Hajia Binta Suleiman, expressed gratitude to Governor Ododo for his compassion and for standing with them during their moment of grief.
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