Governor Ododo Joins Magongo Festival as Olu Sam Bola Returns After Suspension

TL;DR: Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo attended the Owiya Osese Festival in Magongo, celebrating the reinstatement of Olu Sam Bola after his 2024 suspension and highlighting the event’s economic impact.

The Owiya Osese Festival opened in Magongo community, Kogi State, with vibrant cultural displays and a renewed call for unity. The gathering attracted participants from across Kogi and neighboring states, turning the annual celebration into a regional showcase of heritage.

Key to the festival’s narrative was the reinstatement of His Royal Majesty, Sam Bola, as the Olu of Magongo. Bola had been suspended in August 2024 by former Governor Yahaya Bello, a move that sparked controversy and disrupted local traditions. His return was announced during the opening ceremony, signaling a resolution to the dispute.

Prince Akpata Jordan, National President of the Magongo Development Association, described the reinstatement as a “joyous ending” for the community. He emphasized that the festival now serves as a platform for cultural preservation, intergenerational bonding, and communal harmony.

Governor Ododo’s presence underscored state support for grassroots development. The governor met with traditional leaders, local officials, and festival organizers, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to cultural promotion and economic growth.

Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy Hannatu Musa Musawa also attended, lending national visibility to the event. Her involvement has helped raise the festival’s profile beyond regional borders, attracting media attention and potential investment.

The festival’s economic impact was evident as vendors reported increased sales and hotels recorded higher occupancy. Prince Akpata highlighted that the influx of visitors boosts local commerce and strengthens tourism, providing a tangible benefit to the community’s livelihood.

Beyond economics, the celebration reinforced calls for peace and cooperation. Leaders urged residents to maintain stability, noting that development thrives only in a secure environment. The Magongo Development Association reaffirmed its focus on infrastructure, youth empowerment, and community‑driven projects, while urging stakeholders to honor development pledges.

The event also paid tribute to senior advocate Joseph B. Daudu (Senior Advocate of Nigeria), recognizing his role in creating the Ogori/Magongo Local Government Area, a lasting legacy for the region.

What to watch next: Monitor how the state government leverages the festival’s momentum to fund infrastructure projects and expand tourism initiatives in Magongo and surrounding areas.