Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, has given his nod for the immediate reinstatement of several key government officials who resigned in March to contest the governorship primary election of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Jamiu Abdulkarim Asuku, the governor’s Chief of Staff, and Jibrin Momoh, the state’s Accountant-General, are among those reinstated to their previous positions.
The Governor also approved the reinstatement of other officials, including Yakubu Okala, the former State Auditor-General, Idris Asiwaju Asiru, the former Commissioner for Finance, Budget, and Economic Planning, and Barr Momodu Ozigi Deedat, the former Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.
The State’s Secretary to the Government, Folashade Arike Ayoade, confirmed the development, stating that the Governor’s decision has been carefully considered and will enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the government in delivering quality service to the people of Kogi.
However, the statement made it clear that the Auditor-General and commissioners’ reinstatement is subject to the scrutiny and confirmation of the State House of Assembly, which must give its approval before they can resume their duties.
The affected officials withdrew from the APC governorship primary election when Governor Bello endorsed Ahmed Usman OOdodo, the then-State’s Local Government Auditor-General, who eventually emerged winner.
