By Abah Benjamin Eneojoh
Apata-ega h, Kogi State.
January 20, 2026
It was a moment of grief and sorrow on Teusday in Akpata-Egah Idah, were Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, top government officials, traditional rulers, security agencies, friends, political associates and APC stalwarts, gather to pay their last respect for late Hon Onoja James Omachonu, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security for Idah Federal Constituency.
According to the Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor, Mr Unubi Emmanuel, the Governor, represented by his Deputy, Comrade Joel Salifu, described the late Onoja James, as a humble, brave, and dedicated public servant whose death at the age of 49 came too early.
Governor Ododo noted that the late Onoja James served the people with honesty and commitment, both as Local Government Chairman and as Special Adviser on Security. He praised his courage and sacrifices, especially his frontline efforts alongside security agencies to ensure peace and safety across Idah Federal Constituency.
The Governor said the loss was not only painful to the family but also to the entire Kogi State, describing the late Onoja James as a loyal partner, trusted adviser, and dependable leader.
He assured the Onoja family, particularly his wife and children, of the continued support of the Kogi State Government, stressing that the services and sacrifices of the deceased would not be forgotten.
Governor Ododo prayed for God’s comfort for the bereaved family and called for divine protection over the youths and people of the state, while urging all to draw strength from the impactful life lived by the deceased.
The late Hon. Onoja James Omachonu, popularly known as Kross, aged 49, passed away on the 11th of January 2026, after a brief illness. Until his death he was the former Chairman of Igalamela-Odolu Local Government Area, and current Special Adviser to the Governor on Security for Idah Federal Constituency. He is survived by his wife and three children. Interment followed shortly after the funeral service, at his country home of Amaka Akpodu in Igalamela-Odolu LGA.
