Leadership beyond politics: Joel Salifu Oyibo, tradition and the bridge to the grassroots
By Isah Jibrin Egbolo
August 29, 2026, will remain a remarkable day in the history of Idah, Kogi State, as His Excellency, the Deputy Governor of Kogi State, Comrade Joel Salifu Oyibo, was adorned in traditional regalia and formally honoured with the prestigious title of Ogaa Attah in the ancient town of Idah.
The occasion was more than a ceremonial display of culture and tradition. It represented the enduring relationship between traditional institutions, community leadership and modern democratic governance.
Traditional institutions remain an established system of social organisation and cultural practice rooted in the history, customs and values of communities. Beyond their cultural significance, traditional rulers and institutions can serve as important channels for social cohesion, community development, conflict resolution and constructive engagement between government and the grassroots.
It is against this background that the honorary chieftaincy title bestowed on Comrade Joel Salifu Oyibo should be understood. The honour provides an informal but vital bridge between grassroots communities and modern democratic governance. It should not be misconstrued by opposition parties or political observers as merely an attempt to build a campaign network. Rather, the fundamental significance of such an honour lies in social respect, recognition of achievement, appreciation of values and the promotion of peaceful coexistence and community development.
The title, therefore, can reasonably be viewed as a reflection of the Deputy Governor’s perceived magnanimity, liberal disposition, commitment to community development and the social values he has brought to public service and Kogi politics.
Comrade Joel Salifu Oyibo has increasingly positioned himself as a bridge between grassroots communities and government. His public declaration of commitment to peace within families, communities and Kogi State at large is consistent with a leadership philosophy that places reconciliation above confrontation.
He has repeatedly emphasised the need to choose love over hatred, unity over division, forgiveness over bitterness and understanding over conflict. His approach, as demonstrated through his words and actions, is one that seeks to heal rather than hurt, unite rather than divide, and build rather than destroy.
It is perhaps against this backdrop that some Kogi sons and daughters are expressing support for the Ododo/Oyibo Continuity Agenda through various political support groups.
Among them is the Kogi Support East Support Group, as well as the Rivers State Ododo/Oyibo Support Group, chaired by Comrade Emma Show Love, whose organisational capacity and political knowledge have continued to attract attention.
Another notable platform is the Honourable Eunice Achimugu Solidarity Group for the Ododo/Oyibo Continuity Agenda. Its advocacy reflects the position of a woman who has consistently championed the survival and development of her community, with particular emphasis on equity, inclusion and social cohesion. Such efforts are important to the because they promote participatory leadership and uphold the sovereignty and aspirations of the people.
However, there is also a broader lesson for those serving in government. It is apparently logical and reasonable to appeal to all political appointees and advisers in the Kogi State Government to learn from the public-service orientation associated with the Ododo/Oyibo administration. Government appointments should be seen primarily as opportunities for service, community engagement and meaningful development, not merely as platforms for publicity.
There is a difference between communicating achievements and turning public appointments into daily headlines and propaganda. While publicity has its legitimate place in government, it should never replace substantive grassroots engagement. Political office holders must ensure that their activities, sensitisation programmes and public engagements translate into tangible value for the communities they represent.
The real test of leadership is not the number of photographs published, headlines generated or political slogans displayed. It is the extent to which citizens feel heard, included, respected and served.
The conferment of the Ogaa Attah title on Comrade Joel Salifu Oyibo should therefore be viewed within this broader context: as a convergence of tradition, community recognition and contemporary leadership.
For Kogi State, the challenge is to ensure that traditional institutions, elected leaders, political appointees and grassroots communities work together to strengthen peace, inclusion, development and democratic participation.
Ultimately, good leadership is not about titles alone. It is about the trust earned from the people, the bridges built across communities, and the legacy of peace and development left behind.
Hon. Isah Jibrin Egbolo is a grassroots mobiliser in the Igalamela-Odolu local government area of Kogi State.
