Vice President Shettima Leads Condolence Visit To Kogi Governor Ododo.
Vice President Kashim Shettima led a high-level federal delegation to Kogi State on Wednesday, 20 August 2025, to offer condolences to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo following the passing of his father, Alhaji Ahmed Momohsani Ododo. The patriarch, aged 83, died on Monday, 18 August, and was laid to rest in his hometown of Upogoro, Okene Local Government Area, in accordance with Islamic rites.
Upon arrival at Obajana Airstrip, Shettima was warmly received by Kogi’s Deputy Governor, Comrade Joel Salifu, alongside other senior officials. The delegation, which included Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum and Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Senator Abubakar Kyari, proceeded to the Ododo family residence in Okene. Speaking to journalists, Shettima, representing President Bola Tinubu, described the late Alhaji Ododo as “a man of deep faith and remarkable humility” whose life of service to God and community was reflected in the leadership qualities of his son, Governor Ododo. “His legacy of discipline, truthfulness, and compassion endures,” Shettima said, urging the family to find solace in the patriarch’s fulfilled life.
Governor Ododo expressed profound gratitude for the Vice President’s visit, noting that it provided comfort during a time of grief. “Your presence today is a testament to the values of leadership, solidarity, and compassion,” he said, commending Shettima’s commitment despite his busy schedule. The visit was attended by prominent figures, including former Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello, the Ohinoyi of Ebira Land, Ahmed Tijani Muhammed Anaje, and members of the Kogi State House of Assembly.
The condolence visit followed the third-day prayers for Shettima’s late in-law, Muhammad Modu Manga, in Maiduguri, highlighting the Vice President’s personal connection to loss during this period. The Chief Imam of Okene Central Mosque, Alhaji Salihu Abere, led the funeral prayers, with traditional leaders, clerics, and political figures joining to honour Alhaji Ododo’s legacy. Social media posts on X reflected widespread sympathy, with many noting the late patriarch’s influence as a respected community leader.
President Tinubu, the All Progressives Congress, and the Nigeria Governors’ Forum also extended condolences, praising Alhaji Ododo’s integrity and the values he instilled in his son. The outpouring of support underscores the significant impact of the late patriarch, whose life continues to inspire unity and service in Kogi State and beyond.