The Chief Judge of Kogi state, Justice Nadir Ajana on Monday sworn in Edward David Onoja as the Deputy Governor of the state. This follows his clearance by the House of Assembly after his screening at the assembly complex in Lokoja.

His swearing-in ceremony was performed by the Chief Judge of Kogi State, Justice Nasir Ajanah who was assisted by the Grand Khadi of the state, Abdulkareem Aruwa, and Governor Bello

The screening proceeding was presided over by the speaker of the house Matthew Kolawole.

Speaking shortly before the swearing-in ceremony, Kolawole described the of the new deputy governor as a confirmation of the reward for loyalty exhibitted by Onoja as the Chief of Staff to the governor.

He charged the new deputy governor to continue toeing the path of loyalty and hardwork which earned him the elevation.

Also speaking after the swearing-in, the state governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello described the new deputy governor as a loyal and trusted friend who had always demonstrated excellent ability even as his chief of staff He said that he believed that the elevation will no doubt spur him go do more in the task of moving the state to the next level.

"This is nota time for celebration, neither are we mourning, but Edward and I regarded this as a call for

The state assembly, last Friday, impeached Elder Simon Achuba as the deputy to Governor Yahaya Bello, shortly after receiving the report of the panel set up to investigate allegations of gross misconduct against the former deputy.

Achuba on Sunday declared his impeachment as unconstitutional, saying that he will challenge it in court.

Onoja who recently resigned as the Chief of Staff to the Governor, is the running mate to Bello, in the November 16 state governorship election.