Igala Vanguard Commends Senator Echocho’s Gesture Towards Governor Bello

A Socio- cultural and Political group, Igala Vanguard has taken a stand to hail Senator Jibrin Isah Echocho, the Senator representing Kogi East Senatorial District, amidst a viral video showing him prostrating before Governor Yahaya Bello.

The group, represented by its President Dr. Amodu Enejo Joshua expressed their appreciation for Senator Jibrin’s “act of gratitude” towards the governor, as it symbolizes the acknowledgment of Governor Bello’s commendable efforts in benefiting Igala land and Kogi East senatorial district as a whole.

In a statement released by Igala Vanguard in Lokoja on Thursday, the group said, “the pride the Igalas hold for Senator Echocho in carrying their greetings to Governor Yahaya Bello on their behalf is unprecedented. It is worth noting that the political landscape had been uncertain for the Igalas following the selection of a candidate from Kogi Central for the 2023 Kogi Governorship election in the ruling APC and the deliberate shift of the People’s Democratic Party ticket towards the West, the Major Opposition party. This left the Igalas feeling marginalized and overlooked.

“However, much to their surprise, Governor Bello came through by ensuring the nomination of an Igala son as a minister, with the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This act of recognition and inclusivity by the governor prompted Senator Echocho, whose constituents witnessed the nomination, to express his appreciation through the traditional gesture of prostration.

“The Igala Vanguard wish to reaffirmed that such a show of respect does not diminish the dignity of the Igala Kingdom or the office of the senator; rather, it is a reflection of Senator Echocho’s cultural upbringing and his humility, being the First Class Graduate of economics.”

The group went on to extend gratitude to Governor Yahaya Bello for standing with the Igalas and not sidelining them in the scheme of things. They acknowledged that if it were not for the governor’s intervention, the Ministerial slot would likely have been allotted to Kogi West, adding that this demonstrates the governor’s commitment to fostering unity and fairness among the different regions of the state.

Recall Senator Echocho’s political trajectory took a positive turn in 2019 through the support of the new direction government led by Governor Bello. Prior to that, Echocho had faced setbacks in his attempts at securing the governorship position in the state.

His re-election for a second term in office as a senator has also solidified his position as one of the prominent political figures in Kogi State.

“The stance of the Igala Vanguard serves as a testament to the significance of cultural norms and expressions of appreciation within the region. It also highlights the importance of recognizing and supporting leaders who champion the interests of various communities, bringing about a sense of belonging and empowerment among the populace,”

Dr. Amodu used the opportunity to congratulate the people of Igala land and Kogi State for Governor Yahaya Bello choice in the son of late former Governor of the State, Prince Abubakar Audu. He described the choice of Audu’s son as significant and memorable. He further appreciated Tinubu for nominating Shaibu Abubakar Audu who he described as “a technocrat of very high intellectual capacity.”

“Shaibu Audu is a banker of high repute and forthright indigene of Igala Kingdom,” he said.