The Traffic

Philanthropy Meets Politics: Ododo Taps Excel Onuche to Champion Grassroots Revival in Kogi Lokoja 

In a move that signals a shift toward people-powered governance, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has appointed Hon. David Excel Wealth Onuche—a philanthropist and business leader revered for his community outreach—as Senior Special Assistant on Grassroots Mobilization, with immediate effect.

Unlike many political appointments, Onuche’s new role is rooted not in party favoritism but in a proven legacy of public service outside politics. As CEO of Page Mansion Limited and former MD of Djakota Nigeria Ltd, Onuche has long distinguished himself through wide-reaching humanitarian projects: annual medical interventions for sickle cell patients, food aid for widows, scholarships for orphans, and the renovation of neglected orphanages across Kogi.

“We’re not just filling a position,” Governor Ododo declared. “We’re installing a voice for the voiceless—someone whose life’s work already mirrors the very essence of our grassroots vision.”

Onuche’s appointment comes at a time when public trust in political structures is low, and the need for direct citizen engagement has never been more critical. His task? To reconnect communities with government, facilitate policy awareness, and amplify marginalized voices across the state’s rural and urban spaces.

In his new capacity, he will engage stakeholders from traditional rulers and market women to youth associations and civil society, translating government policies into actionable, people-centered programs. Civic town halls, policy literacy drives, and community empowerment initiatives are top of his agenda.

Responding to the appointment, Onuche said:

“This is more than an office—this is a mission. I’ve walked with the people, heard their needs, and I’m ready to ensure those voices drive the decisions that shape their futures.”

Analysts say this appointment could redefine how political offices function in the state—merging philanthropy with governance and bridging the wide gulf between citizens and power.

The government has expressed confidence in Onuche’s ability to bring empathy, action, and accountability to the role, describing him as “a strategic voice for equity and inclusion.”

By Haruna Yakubu Haruna