By Abah Benjamin Eneojoh, Okene.
A massive crowd of mourners on Thursday converged on Okene, Kogi State, for a three-day prayer session in honour of the late Alhaji Ahmed Momohsani Ododo, father of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo
Our correspondent reports that the solemn occasion was led by the Chief Imam of Ebira Land, Shaykh Muhammad Salihu Abere, and drew thousands of attendees who came to pay their respects to the revered patriarch.
The prayer session, attended by the Ohinoyi of Egbiraland, Dr Mohamed Tijani Anaje, is part of the traditional Islamic rituals following a death, reflects the widespread impact of Alhaji Momohsani’s life and legacy on the community.
The Governor’s father was remembered for his piety, humility, and kindness, qualities that endeared him to many.
Governor Ododo’s leadership and commitment to the development of Kogi State were also highlighted during the prayer session, with many attendees noting that the late Alhaji Ahmed MomohSani’s values and principles have been revealed in his son’s exemplary governance.
In attendance were notable dignitaries, including the Governor of Taraba State,Col. Kefas Agbu,rtd, who expressed gratitude to God for the opportunity to celebrate the life of the late Alhaji Ahmed MomohSani.
“Today, we are here to appreciate God for making history. We pray for us here to live a good life. I thank all of you for coming to celebrate with the people’s Governor of Kogi State,” he said.
Former Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello, who also attended the prayer session, described Governor Ododo as his worthy successor. “Gov Ododo is my worthy successor. I appreciate the Governor of Taraba, Col. Kefas Agbu.
“My message is very short; it is an appreciation to God for the worthy life spent by our father, the father of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, my worthy successor and son,” he said.
Governor Bello prayed for Governor Ododo’s success, saying, “May our children outperform and outshine us. My prayer is for Ododo to outperform and outshine me.”
He noted the transformation of Okene, saying, “Okene has turned into another Mecca of itself. People in large crowds have been trooping in since the time of the death of my mother.
“Ododo, you will finish your four years and your eight years successfully to add to my eight years, making it a total of 16 years,”he added.
Responding, Governor Ododo appreciated the former Governor’s kind words and promised his continued loyalty.
“Words cannot express our gratitude to all of you who stand with us in this time of grief. We thank and pray for your safe return to your various destinations,” he said.
He also extended his appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, thanking him for his commitment to good governance.
“We will queue behind Mr. President and give him support at the appropriate time; we will reciprocate his gesture,” Governor Ododo added.
The 3-day prayer session,attended by former Kano State Governor and immediate pass APC National Chairman,Alhaji Umar Ganduje and the former Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu is a poignant reminder of the transience of life and the enduring bonds of family, community, and faith that transcend individual loss.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
