By Dr. S.M. Onalo
Author, Lecturer & Strategist
North Central Nigeria
April 8, 2025
Dear Omattah,
It has become imperative at this juncture to write you this open letter, inspired by sound reasoning and a deep sense of patriotic obligation.
Over the years, I have observed your stance on matters of state and national interest. Your unwavering dedication to the gospel of good governance and people-oriented, transformational leadership is both admirable and inspiring.
You have fought a good fight—fearlessly and consistently. However, I believe it is time to sheath your sword and move closer to the corridors of power. Within government lies the opportunity to convert your passion and ideals into actionable policies and impactful programs that directly benefit the people.
Up until now, your fight has been from the sidelines, and your message has been loud and clear. But the time has come for you to channel your intellect, experience, and goodwill from within. True transformation, I believe, must come from active participation—not perpetual criticism.
Governance is a collective responsibility. While the role of the critic is crucial, enduring progress often stems from those willing to build from within. Your credentials—a brilliant mind, a humane spirit, an accomplished chartered accountant, and a lover of the people—are precisely what the machinery of governance needs.
His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, the Executive Governor of Kogi State, is a man with a heart of gold. He has shown openness and a commitment to democratic ideals. His doors are open to all who genuinely wish to contribute to the growth and prosperity of our dear state. I urge you to join forces with him in our shared pursuit of a better Kogi State.
Let me state without ambiguity: God rules in the affairs of men. The emergence of Alhaji Ododo as Governor is part of God’s divine arrangement. If the Almighty does not will it, no one can ascend the throne. Therefore, I ask that you see this as a divine call to collaboration.
I dream of a Kogi State where ethnic, political, and religious divisions fade into the background—replaced by a common identity defined by performance and excellence. That, I believe, is a dream we both share.
Kogi is a state blessed with diverse ethnic nationalities, rich culture, and deep-rooted traditions. Yet, intermarriage, political cooperation, and a shared hunger for progress have woven us into a resilient and sophisticated people. Power play is inevitable in such an environment, but it must be one that serves, unites, and uplifts.
In all honesty, you have done more than most. But the time has come to take a seat at the table of governance and contribute directly to policy and development. Your strength, fearlessness, political ideology, and visionary leadership must now find expression within the structures of government.
You come from a decent, disciplined, and robust family background, which has clearly influenced your worldview. The state needs you. The government is ready to work with you. You are well-positioned to bridge political divides and assist the Governor in uniting our people under a common agenda.
In your quiet moments, I encourage you to reflect deeply on the man, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo—his peaceful nature, his commitment to trust, and his collaborative leadership style. Above all, he is a man who fears God. These qualities have endeared him to many across the state.
I write this out of love for peace, unity, and progress. No society thrives under chaos and rancour. Though I have never met you in person, I have followed your writings and commentaries on national and global affairs. Your bold, incisive, and balanced perspectives have earned you a well-deserved reputation.
Omattah, think deep.
Ojokinugwa Chaka.
Gracias!
— Dr. S.M. Onalo
