Edward David Onoja, the former deputy governor of Kogi State, recently disclosed that he has extended forgiveness to his former principal, Yahaya Bello. This act of forgiveness comes in the wake of strained political relations between the two, though Onoja emphasized the enduring difficulty of restoring broken trust. Speaking during an interview on the MiC On Podcast, published on Saturday night, Onoja offered a detailed account of his post-administration path and his current political focus.

Onoja clarified that his professional tenure with Bello continued until the conclusion of their administration. Following their exit from office, he consciously chose to distance himself, creating necessary personal and professional space.

“We served together till the last day, everybody exited and followed the path that God has created for them. I am not serving under him (Bello). It won’t be a daily affair for us to be relating, and we just felt there should be space. Like I said, I isolated myself for a very good period of time,” he explained.

Addressing the critical aspect of forgiveness, Onoja articulated its profound importance from a Christian perspective, highlighting its role in personal and spiritual progression. He firmly stated, “For those actions, by faith and by creed, if you don’t forgive, you can’t move on. If you don’t forgive, you can’t even fly.” When directly questioned by the host regarding his forgiveness of former Governor Bello, Onoja unequivocally affirmed, “I believe I have, from my heart, I have.”

However, despite his assertion of forgiveness, the former deputy governor underscored a crucial distinction: the irreparable nature of trust once it has been compromised. He stressed with conviction, “Once you destroy trust, it will be very, very difficult to build.” This statement highlights a nuanced understanding of reconciliation, where personal absolution may not necessarily translate into a full restoration of a foundational relationship element.

Onoja further revealed that he has decisively transitioned in his political career, shifting his allegiance and focus. He is now actively engaged in supporting the incumbent Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo and is serving at a national level under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a Board member of the South-East Development Commission (SEDC).

Reflecting on his current trajectory, Onoja expressed enthusiasm for future endeavors: “I am free, looking forward to greater things and then adding value to the current governor (Ododo) in the areas I can, and then serving at the level that God has placed me today. I now have a new principal, His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. I am serving him,” he concluded.