A former deputy governor of Kogi State, David Onoja, has publicly apologized to his predecessor, Dr. Simon Achuba, for any role he may have played in Achuba’s impeachment in 2019. Onoja, who currently serves as a Commissioner in the Public Complaints Commission, made the apology during a visit to Achuba’s residence in Abuja on Friday.
The visit was seen as a significant step towards healing and reconciliation, as Onoja sought to clear the air about past misunderstandings. Achuba was controversially impeached as deputy governor under the Yahaya Bello administration, with Onoja being sworn in as his replacement. However, the impeachment was later overturned by the courts, although Bello’s administration had already completed its tenure.
Onoja stated on his social media page that he had long been accused of orchestrating Achuba’s impeachment to take his position, but denied these claims. He said he had apologized to Achuba 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 seen as a positive step towards unity and cooperation in Kogi State. Onoja emphasized the importance of building bridges and healing wounds, rather than holding grudges. He noted that true leadership involves moving forward with a spirit of love and unity, and that Kogi’s progress depends on cooperation and reconciliation.
The apology and meeting between Onoja and Achuba are significant, given the contentious nature of Achuba’s impeachment and the subsequent court battle. The move towards reconciliation may help to alleviate tensions and promote a more positive political climate in Kogi State. As Onoja noted, the visit was a “sacred moment of reuniting” and an opportunity to clear the air about past misunderstandings, paving the way for a more unified and cooperative approach to governance in the state.
