Comr. Dare Mathew (OG Bobo) Honours Former Governor Yahaya Bello’s 50th Birthday with Transformational Educational Initiative
Akin Fanodun-Kabba
In an era when political loyalty is often fleeting, Comrade Dare Mathew, popularly known as OG Bobo, has once again distinguished himself through an inspiring act of tribute, commitment, and people-driven leadership. On the occasion of the 50th birthday anniversary of His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello, the immediate past Governor of Kogi State, OG Bobo sponsored the production and distribution of over 5,000 60-leaf branded exercise books for students across the Kabba/Bunu axis and the broader Kogi West Senatorial District.
Though the birthday itself was marked on June 18, 2025, the impact of the celebration continues to ripple across communities, fueled by this lasting educational investment. More than just a token of celebration, the initiative is a profound expression of OG Bobo’s enduring admiration for the former Governor, as well as a reflection of his deep-rooted belief in the transformative power of education.
OG Bobo’s decision to honour Yahaya Bello with an educational outreach program underscores his understanding of what true legacy means. In his own words:
> “His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, has been more than a political figure he is a symbol of courage, resilience, and reform in Kogi State. Celebrating his 50th birthday with a gesture that touches the lives of students is the most meaningful way I could show my appreciation and loyalty. Education builds futures. That’s the kind of legacy Governor Bello has inspired in many of us.”
This statement captures the spirit of an initiative that has already begun to impact lives providing students with essential learning materials at a time when economic conditions continue to challenge many families.
Known across Kogi West for his consistency in grassroots mobilization and social intervention, OG Bobo has long been a vocal supporter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), and a staunch ally of both former Governor Yahaya Bello and current Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo. His contributions go beyond political rhetoric. Over the years, he has initiated:
Widows and widowers’ empowerment schemes in rural communities
Youth development programs through skills acquisition and mentorship
Education support efforts like scholarship drives and supply of materials to underfunded schools
By embedding this latest gesture into the framework of his broader philanthropic efforts, OG Bobo continues to bridge the gap between leadership and the people proving that public service is not confined to official positions.
Observers within and outside the APC have noted that OG Bobo’s action is also a quiet but powerful political statement reinforcing his loyalty to the values espoused by Yahaya Bello’s administration: youth inclusion, education reform, and the pursuit of security and unity across all tribes in Kogi.
Political analysts in the state have described the initiative as both timely and strategic, particularly as the state prepares for upcoming developmental programs under Governor Ododo’s administration. OG Bobo’s alignment with state leadership, coupled with his street-level credibility, places him among the rising figures to watch in Kogi West politics.
In a private response shared by his media aides, former Governor Yahaya Bello expressed heartfelt appreciation for the gesture, describing OG Bobo as:
> “…a loyal son of the soil and an example of what it means to serve beyond titles. His commitment to education and to the empowerment of our people is deeply appreciated. This is the kind of legacy we hoped to inspire one that lives in the actions of the next generations
As the books make their way into classrooms and the impact of the donation becomes evident, Comr. Dare Mathew’s message is clear: leadership is not about titles it is about responsibility, consistency, and purpose.
By choosing to mark a personal celebration with a communal investment, OG Bobo has not only honoured a mentor but also reminded Kogi people of the values that build nations: respect for legacy, love for the people, and an unshakable belief in the power of education.
