By Abdul Mohammed Lawal
Born during Nigeria’s formative years and growing up in Kogi State when it was still part of a larger regional entity, Senator Jibrin Isah Echocho witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by rural communities. For many families, education was a rare privilege, and moving from Kogi’s villages to urban centers in search of better opportunities was a daunting task, typically reserved for those who had access to formal education. Senator Echocho’s journey is one of overcoming these odds.
From his roots in Ajiolo, Echocho was recognized early for his exceptional intelligence. His academic prowess earned him the nickname translated as “A-class,” reflecting his outstanding achievements and promising future. This early success allowed him to pursue higher education, a luxury not afforded to many of his peers who remained in agriculture.
After achieving multiple first-class degrees, Echocho embarked on a notable career in banking. His strategic acumen quickly propelled him through the ranks, culminating in significant roles such as Executive Director at Afribank and Managing Director at AIL Securities Limited. His leadership in these positions contributed greatly to the growth of Nigeria’s financial sector and showcased his expertise in economic management.
Echocho’s banking success set the stage for his ambition to secure the position of Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). Despite his qualifications, his bid was thwarted by geopolitical dynamics and the northern power structures, which favored another candidate. The Emir of Katsina’s intervention further solidified the decision against Echocho, revealing the regional biases that influence high-level appointments.
Undeterred by this setback, Echocho shifted his focus to Kogi State’s governance. His 2011 candidacy for the governorship under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) was marked by initial enthusiasm, particularly in Kogi East, where his reputation as an economic expert and philanthropist earned him widespread support. However, political maneuvering within the PDP led to the withdrawal of his ticket and the endorsement of Captain Idris Wada, an outcome many saw as a betrayal and a testament to the political power struggles in Nigeria.
Despite this setback, Echocho’s resilience paved the way for his later political success. Elected to the Nigerian Senate in 2019 to represent Kogi East, he has made significant contributions, particularly in human capital development. His focus on skills acquisition, scholarships, and business grants has empowered many in Kogi East, fostering sustainable livelihoods and creating opportunities for the region’s youth.
The political dynamics in Kogi State have continued to evolve, with the “New Direction” government under His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, making strides in reducing the influence of traditional political elites. The recent gubernatorial election renewed regional relevance for some, but also highlighted ongoing political exploitation.
As Kogi State moves forward, Senator Echocho’s journey serves as a reflection on the political landscape’s complexities and the need for genuine reform. His contributions to Kogi State, alongside the efforts of the current administration under Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, promise a future of continuity and consolidation.
In conclusion, the lessons from Echocho’s 2011 governorship trials underscore the importance of addressing political biases and ensuring fair opportunities for all. Kogi State’s progress relies on learning from past mistakes and building a more inclusive and transparent political environment.
Thank you, His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, for your dedication to Kogi State, and thank you for the promising future under the “Continuity and Consolidation” administration of His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo. Kogi State’s journey towards improvement continues.