The Kogi State Government has confirmed the deaths of three prominent figures in the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the loss as a profound blow to the party and the state’s political landscape. The announcement was made on Monday, January 12, 2026, in a statement issued by Kingsley Fanwo, Commissioner for Information and Communication, in the state capital.
The trio, inlclude, Hon. Onojah James Ignatius, Hon. Jatto Onimisi Suleiman, and Alhaji Alih Atabo, were described by the government as “distinguished sons of the state” whose careers were marked by dedicated public service and political commitment.
According to the government’s statement, Onojah James Ignatius served as Special Adviser to the Governor of Kogi State and was a former Chairman of the Igalamela Local Government Area, where he was known for his grassroots mobilisation and administrative acumen.
“Hon. Onojah James Ignatius was a seasoned grassroots mobiliser and administrator whose passion for community development and good governance was evident in all his engagements,” the statement read, highlighting his impact on local governance and APC’s grassroots structure.
Jatto Onimisi Suleiman was honoured for his role as Senior Special Assistant to the Governor, noted for his humility, diligence, and sense of responsibility in carrying out his duties. The government said Suleiman consistently placed “the interest of the people above personal considerations.”
“Hon. Jatto Onimisi Suleiman discharged his duties with humility, diligence, and an unwavering sense of responsibility, always placing the interest of the people above personal considerations,” the commissioner wrote.
Alhaji Alih Atabo, the APC Chairman of Anyigba Ward in Dekina Local Government Area, was described as “a committed party stalwart” whose devotion to the growth, unity and progress of the APC at the ward level was “exemplary.”
“Alhaji Alih Atabo was a committed party stalwart whose devotion to the growth, unity, and progress of the APC at the ward level was exemplary,” the statement added.
While the statement did not provide details surrounding the circumstances of their deaths, the Kogi State Government extended heartfelt condolences on behalf of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, the government and the people of Kogi State to the families, friends, associates and the broader APC community.
“We also commiserate with the people of Igalamela, Okene, Dekina, and all those whose lives were touched by their selfless service. We deeply appreciate their invaluable contributions to the development of Kogi State and the strengthening of our great party,” Fanwo’s statement read.
The government affirmed that the legacies of service, sacrifice and dedication by the late chieftains “will continue to inspire us,” emphasising their roles in promoting community development and fostering party strength across local government areas.
Political associates and community members have begun to share tributes, noting the significant roles all three leaders played within Kogi’s political environment, particularly in grassroots mobilisation and party cohesion. Their deaths come at a critical time as the state and nation prepare for increased political activity ahead of 2027 electoral cycles.
Observers say the loss of these seasoned party figures may leave a gap in local leadership dynamics, particularly within the APC’s organisational structure in Igalamela, Okene, and Dekina local government areas.
As tributes continue to pour in, party supporters in Kogi have called for unity and continuity in pursuing the late leaders’ vision for community progress and political engagement.
