Like-Father, Like-Daughter: Celebrating a rare gem, Hajia Habibat Oyiza Onumoko, Kogi State Accountant-General
Part II
By Tayo Onimisi Omodaiye
Greatness begets greatness. An incisive analysis of the father-daughter relationship explains the impacts of the father on his daughter’s life, work, values and personal relationships.
In this article, the story particularly hovers around the private life of Alh. Aliyu Ismaila Onumoko, the father of the Kogi State Accountant-General, Hajia Habibat Oyiza Onumoko.
The story chronicles his success story, the admiration of the families he left behind, as well as the indelible mark he left in the eternal anal of his community in Okengwe-ehi and Ebiraland as a whole.
It is also very true that mothers play significant roles in a child’s life too, but when a woman is racking up accolades and honoured with words that traditional societies reserve for men, one becomes inquisitive and tempted to ask the question, “who is her father?’. This is the typical case of Hajia Habibat Oyiza Onumoko.
Alh. Aliyu Isma’ila Onumoko was a hero. He led a life of integrity and honesty. His love for his family and community was not at any point compromised.
Nine years after the demise of Alh. Aliyu Isma’ila Onumoko, he is still very much alive as he is a constant point of reference in the affairs of his community.
He was indeed, a devout muslim, a community leader of high ethics and appreciable moral standards, who had a deep relationship with God.
Today as I reminisce on the life and times of Alh. Aliyu Isma’ila Onumoko, the need for this write-up springs up, first, to express my admiration for Hajia Habibat Onumoko, our five star philanthropic general for her doggedness and perseverance and secondly, to serve as a congratulatory message on attaining such a milestone of her life and career in the public service.
Like her father who was known for bravery and selflessness, Hajia Habibat Oyiza Onumoko, (Ozi-Avata bombom, Ozi-Opokitipo, Ozi Ohireba Okengwe, Ozi Adiyaya Obanyin) has an enduring passion for humanity and has made great impact in her immediate community and beyond.
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Little wonder why the people of Kogi State, both men and women, young and old, seek every available means to pour encomiums on the loving woman.
Her case has proven that a woman can be anything she wants. She has become a standard reference point for the girl-child.
Through her dedication and commitment, the world watches her steady growth in the public service.
From the position of the Treasurer of Okene Local Government Area to the position of Director of Finance in the Ministry for Local Governments and Chieftaincy Affairs, she has risen through the ranks and paid her dues accordingly.
At another point she was the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry before she was appointed as the Accountant-General of Kogi State, an elevation pervading optimism, giving the people of Kogi State a shared hope for a brighter tomorrow.
Her generosity is evident. As the Founder of the socio- political group, FairWin Women Advancement Association (FAWWASS) with membership base of over 15,000 women spanning through the 21 LGAs of the State and across the country, she has given hope to the vulnerables and put smiles on the faces of many.
It is also true that, power goes beyond the title as it resides in the substance. The name ‘Hajia Habibat Oyiza Onumoko’ has come to be regarded as a badge of honour.
She is indeed, a result-oriented administrator who sees solutions where others see problems.
Compassionate and filled with utmost humility with a reassuring smile that makes people around her feel loved.
For everyone who crosses her path, she is a beacon of light. Her enduring passion for humanity, innovative ideas, leadership skills and commitment to public service are qualities that set her apart.
In recognition of her wonderful performance both in public and private life, she has received several titles and awards coming from within and outside Kogi State.
The Yeye Atuluse of Aiyetoro Kiri Bunu Kingdom is known and will always be treasured as a woman of complete integrity, a valuable asset and a huge blessing to humanity.
And as we look forward to February 14, 2024, the nineth year after the death of a fearless community leader, Alh. Aliyu Isma’ila Onumoko, while we remain in sober reflection, we pray Allah (SWT) continue to place him in Aljannatul Firdausi, ameen.
Long Live the Onumoko Dynasty!
