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Kogi State was plunged into mourning on Monday following the deaths of three prominent chieftains of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), a development that has unsettled the political atmosphere and generated widespread concern among party members and residents.
Ejes Gist Media reports that the deceased were identified as Hon. Onojah James Ignatius, Hon. Jatto Onimisi Suleiman, and Alhaji Alih Atabo. All three were influential figures within the APC structure in Kogi State, occupying strategic political and grassroots positions that made them well known across different parts of the state.
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The deaths, which occurred within the same day, have thrown the ruling party into deep grief and heightened tension, particularly as details surrounding the circumstances of their passing have not been made public.
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Confirmation of the deaths came from the Kogi State Government in a statement issued in Lokoja by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo. The commissioner described the incident as a painful loss to the government and the APC family, noting that the state had lost three of its “distinguished sons” who made significant contributions to governance and party organisation at various levels.
According to the statement, Hon. Onojah James Ignatius was serving as a Special Adviser to the Governor of Kogi State until his death. He was also a former Chairman of Igalamela Local Government Area, where he was widely regarded as a grassroots politician with strong connections to the people. Over the years, Onojah earned a reputation as an effective mobiliser with a deep understanding of local politics and community needs.
Hon. Jatto Onimisi Suleiman, another of the deceased, was a Senior Special Assistant to the Governor. He was described by colleagues as quiet and dedicated, known for carrying out his duties with diligence and a strong sense of responsibility. Party members and government officials often spoke of his humility and commitment to public service.
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The third chieftain, Alhaji Alih Atabo, served as the APC Chairman of Anyigba Ward in Dekina Local Government Area. He was widely recognised as a loyal party stalwart who played a key role in strengthening the APC at the grassroots. His leadership at the ward level was credited with promoting party unity and effective mobilisation, especially during election periods.
In his remarks, Fanwo said, “The Government and people of Kogi State have received with profound sorrow the news of the passing of three distinguished sons of the state.” He described the deceased as committed party leaders who served with loyalty and dedication, leaving behind legacies worthy of remembrance.
The commissioner further noted that Onojah James Ignatius was a seasoned administrator with a passion for community development and good governance. He added that Jatto Onimisi Suleiman consistently placed public interest above personal considerations, while Alhaji Alih Atabo remained a devoted party man whose commitment to the growth and unity of the APC at the ward level was exemplary.
Notably, the statement did not disclose the circumstances surrounding the deaths, a development that has fueled speculation and anxiety among party members and residents across the state. As news of the incident spread, social media platforms were inundated with condolence messages, alongside calls for clarity to ease public concern.
Political observers noted that the deaths occurred at a sensitive period, as Kogi State continues to navigate post-election political realignments and internal party dynamics. The loss of three influential APC figures within such a short time has therefore deepened unease, particularly among grassroots supporters who relied on the deceased for leadership and direction.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, through the commissioner, extended his condolences to the families of the deceased, their associates, and members of the APC across the state. He described the deaths as a painful loss not only to the party but to Kogi State as a whole, stressing that the contributions of the late chieftains to governance and political development would not be forgotten.
Fanwo also sympathised with residents of Igalamela, Okene, and Dekina Local Government Areas, communities directly affected by the loss. He said the legacies of service, sacrifice, and dedication left behind by the deceased would continue to inspire both the government and the people of the state.
Within APC circles, the mood has remained sombre. Party members in various local government areas reportedly held prayer sessions in honour of the departed chieftains, while senior party figures described the development as tragic and prayed for strength for the bereaved families.
Residents in the affected communities also expressed shock and sadness. In Igalamela, community leaders described Onojah as a bridge between the people and the government, while in Dekina, party faithful remembered Atabo as a tireless organiser committed to party discipline and unity.
As Kogi State continues to mourn, calls have emerged for authorities to address any underlying issues connected to the deaths in order to calm public anxiety. For now, the state remains united in grief, reflecting on the lives and contributions of Hon. Onojah James Ignatius, Hon. Jatto Onimisi Suleiman, and Alhaji Alih Atabo, whose absence has left a noticeable void in the state’s political landscape.
