A former deputy governor of Kogi State, David Onoja, publicly apologized to his predecessor, Dr. Simon Achuba, for any role he may have played in Achuba’s 2019 impeachment. Onoja, who now serves as a Commissioner in the Public Complaints Commission, made the apology during a visit to Achuba’s residence in Abuja on Friday. The meeting was seen as a significant step toward healing and reconciliation, allowing the two men to clear the air about past misunderstandings.
Achuba was controversially impeached as deputy governor under the Yahaya Bello administration, and Onoja was sworn in as his replacement. Although the courts later overturned the impeachment, Bello’s administration had already completed its tenure. Onoja has long been accused of orchestrating Achuba’s removal to assume the position, a claim he denied on his social media page. He said he apologized for any hurt he may have caused, knowingly or unknowingly, and praised his predecessor for his “large heart, wise counsel, and warm hospitality.”
The meeting between the two former officials has been hailed as a positive step toward unity and cooperation in Kogi State. Onoja emphasized the importance of building bridges and healing wounds rather than holding grudges, noting that true leadership involves moving forward with love and unity. He added that Kogi’s progress depends on cooperation and reconciliation.
Given the contentious nature of Achuba’s impeachment and the subsequent court battle, the apology and meeting are significant. The move toward reconciliation may help alleviate tensions and promote a more positive political climate in Kogi State. As Onoja described, the visit was a “sacred moment of reuniting,” an opportunity to clear the air about past misunderstandings and pave the way for a more unified and cooperative approach to governance in the state.
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