By John Oche
Residents of Obehira-Uvete in Okene Local Government Area of Kogi State erupted in celebration on Friday as the My People First Foundation officially handed over a fully furnished four-bedroom bungalow to a widow, Mama Salametu Shaibu, as part of activities marking the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.
The event attracted government officials, traditional rulers, religious leaders, women and youth groups, as well as community members who gathered to witness what many described as a remarkable act of compassion and humanitarian service.
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Mama Salametu’s plight had attracted public attention earlier this year after reports and a viral appeal highlighted her difficult living conditions in a severely dilapidated house. The widow was said to have struggled daily for survival, often unable to meet her basic needs.
Touched by her situation, the My People First Foundation, led by Hajiya Aishat Oyiza Omade, adopted the project in March 2026 and pledged to provide her with a decent home. Barely a few months later, the promise was fulfilled with the completion and furnishing of a modern four-bedroom bungalow.
Representing Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo at the ceremony, the Commissioner for Works, Hon. Taiye Abanika, commended the foundation for complementing government efforts aimed at improving the welfare of vulnerable citizens.
He described the gesture as a significant intervention that would help alleviate the suffering of widows and other disadvantaged members of society.
The project was formally commissioned by renowned Islamic scholar and philanthropist Sheikh Abdulrahman Khalifa alongside Dr. Abdullahi Ozomata.
Speaking at the event, community leaders, youths and traditional rulers expressed profound gratitude to the foundation, describing the intervention as unprecedented and a shining example of selfless service to humanity.
They also praised Hajiya Aishat Oyiza Omade for her consistent support for widows, the elderly and other vulnerable groups through various humanitarian initiatives across Kogi State.
Addressing guests, Hajiya Omade said the donation symbolises the true essence of democracy, where the wellbeing of citizens, particularly the less privileged, remains a collective responsibility.
According to her, the gesture reflects the values of unity, compassion, inclusion and shared commitment to nation-building.
She noted that the successful completion of the project further underscores the growing impact of the My People First Foundation in humanitarian service, social welfare, empowerment, food security and support for vulnerable persons.
She added that sustainable democracy can only thrive in an environment where love, empathy, justice and care for humanity are actively promoted and encouraged.
