By Obansa Ibrahim, Lokoja
Reflecting on his life journey, one poignant experience stands out as a testament to the profound and lasting impact of human kindness and compassion, leaving an indelible mark on his life.
In the uncertain world we live in, few things are more precious than the gift of life. For Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State, that gift was granted through the selfless actions of one remarkable man – Dr. Ayo Olayemi, the current Chief Medical Director of the Kogi State Hospitals Management Board, Lokoja.
Born without a silver spoon, Ododo’s journey was marked by hardship from the very beginning. In 1997, when his mother’s health took a dire turn, requiring urgent surgical intervention, their world was plunged into darkness.
With her blood levels dangerously low at a mere 19 percent, hope seemed to slip away. Faith seemed lost. It was In this moment of despair that Dr. Ayo Olayemi emerged as a beacon of compassion. Approached by Ododo, the esteemed doctor assured him that he would take control of the situation, even if money was not yet available, life first..“My son, go,” Dr. Ayo Olayemi told Ododo, his words carrying the weight of a promise that would forever change their lives.
True to his word, Dr. Ayo Olayemi stabilized the woman before performing the operation successfully, with steadfast skill, guiding Ododo’s mother back from the brink and restoring her to good health – all without the family yet bearing the financial burden.
Years later, the memory of that pivotal moment remains etched in Ododo’s heart, a testament to the power of human kindness. Fortunately, as he caught sight of Dr. Olayemi once more during the flag off distribution of medical equipment/consumables to health facilities in Kogi State in Lokoja, the state capital recently evoked a mix of emotions. Governor Ododo found himself on the verge of tears – not tears of sorrow, but of profound gratitude for the man who had given him the most precious gift of all: his mother’s life.
“My mother is still alive today. I don’t know how to appreciate you. What Dr. Ayo Olayemi has done to save my mother’s life is a thing that will linger in my mind for a lifetime. Dr. Olayemi’s actions not only saved my mother’s life but also instilled hope and gratitude in our family. His selflessness and expertise does not only restore our faith in humanity, but also serves as a testament to the power of kindness and the importance of accessible healthcare.
This event was in his private hospital at Ateba, Agassa. I will always be grateful for his help and inspired by his example to make a positive difference in the lives of others,” the Governor said as his voice trembles with emotion.and he further said he sees Dr Olayemi he always feels like cryingHowever, Dr. Ayo Olayemi’s actions, compassion and selflessness that he so beautifully exemplified have inspired Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo to approach life with a greater sense of empathy and a commitment to making a positive impact on those around him, no matter how small the gesture.
In a world that can often feel cold and unforgiving, a place where kindness and compassion are often scarce, Dr. Olayemi’s selfless act stands as a shining example, reminding us that even in the darkest moments, hope and humanity can prevail in ways we may never truly comprehend.