Minister Shuaibu Audu Appreciates Kogi State Government, Murtala Yakubu Ajaka and Other Dignitaries

The Kogi State Government, in collaboration with the family of the late former Governor of Kogi State, Prince Abubakar Audu, on Saturday, November 22, 2025, held the 10th Memorial Anniversary Prayer (Du’a) in honour of the iconic statesman at his country home in Ogbonicha, Ofu Local Government Area.

The solemn event attracted top government officials, political leaders, religious clerics, royal fathers, and community members, including frontline politician Murtala Yakubu Ajaka (Muri), who joined others in paying respect to the late founding father of modern Kogi State.

In his remarks, the Honourable Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, paid glowing tribute to his late father, describing him as a visionary whose leadership continues to shape the history and development of Kogi State even a decade after his passing.

The Minister also expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Kogi State Government, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, former Governor Yahaya Bello, Murtala Yakubu Ajaka, and all other dignitaries who graced the memorial prayer and offered their support to the family.
According to him, their presence reflects unity, respect, and a shared commitment to preserving the values his late father stood for.

Representing Governor Ododo, the Deputy Governor, Elder Joel Salifu Oyibo, praised Prince Abubakar Audu’s lasting contributions, noting that while some leaders leave office with little impact, the late statesman’s legacy remains unmatched and widely celebrated.

Islamic clerics led by Sheikh Ahmad Sulaiman offered special prayers for the repose of the late leader’s soul, while traditional rulers, led by the Ohinoyi of Ebira Land, HRH Tijanni Anaje—who represented the Attah of Igalaland—participated in Qur’anic recitations.

Other dignitaries present included Senator Jibrin Isah (Echocho); members of the State Executive Council; the Auditor-General, Mr. Yusuf Okala; members of the Kogi State House of Assembly; local government chairmen; and royal fathers such as the Ejeh of Ofu and the Orego of Ogbonicha.

Prince Abubakar Audu, the first civilian governor of Kogi State, passed away on November 22, to 2015. His legacy endures through landmark projects such as the Prince Abubakar Audu