A Kogi East youth activist, I.D. Ijele, has challenged the Kogi State Government to settle the alleged outstanding entitlements of former Governor, Capt. Idris Wada (Rtd), saying government cannot claim to honour late former Governor Ibrahim Idris while ignoring living ex-leaders.
In a statement titled “The Voice of Ibegwu” issued on Wednesday, Ijele described as “political theatre” what he called selective remembrance of former governors.
According to him, “love for the dead has suddenly become easier than justice for the living” when cameras are rolling.
“So, apparently, love for the dead has suddenly become easier than justice for the living. If Capt. Idris Wada’s lawful entitlements remain outstanding, then settle them first before anyone starts giving us emotional speeches about honouring former Governors,” the statement read.
The activist maintained that the state government cannot conveniently remember the dead while allegedly forgetting the legitimate benefits of the living.
“Kogi people are watching. If Capt. Wada is legally entitled to pension or other outstanding benefits, pay what is due. You cannot be shouting ‘we honour our heroes’ while a former Governor is allegedly still waiting for what belongs to him,” he said.
Ijele added that Kogi East youths reject what he termed “we love the dead politics” and urged Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo to demonstrate genuine honour by how his administration treats living former leaders.
“If the government truly wants to honour Ibro’s memory, let that honour be reflected in how it treats living former leaders, citizens and families who are still here to demand justice,” he stated.
He concluded by demanding answers from the state government on the status of the former governor’s entitlements.
