Kogi’s traditional rulers applaud INEC and other stakeholders for their contributions to the peaceful and credible conduct of the governorship election held in the state last Saturday.
They also extended their congratulations to the Governor-elect, Usman Ododo, and reaffirmed the traditional institutions’ commitment to ongoing collaboration with the Kogi State Government to strengthen the unity and development achieved under the current administration.
The monarchs expressed their sentiments during a congratulatory visit to Kogi State Governor His Excellency Yahaya Bello, CON, at his GRA residence in Okene on Tuesday.
The Atta Igala and serving President of the Kogi State Traditional Council of Chiefs, Mathew Alaji Opaluwa Ogwuche-Akpa, stated that the purpose of their visit was to celebrate the Governor, his administration, and the Governor-elect, Usman Ododo, for the peaceful and successful governorship polls held on November 11, 2023.
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Represented by Obaro of Kabba, Oba Solomon Dele Owoniyi, the monarch recalled their peace accord meeting with relevant stakeholders before the election, where they were advised to exercise caution regarding information circulating on social media and were assured that the government and security agencies had implemented mechanisms to ensure a peaceful election.
Regarding the election in Okunland, Oba Solomon emphasized the people’s united stance in recognizing and rewarding the governor for the positive impact of his administration. He expressed confidence that if given another opportunity, the people of Okunland would not only deliver the entire Okunland but would also widen the margin of lead.
He appealed to Governor Bello to continue his efforts at strengthening the bond among the people of Kogi State, advocating for a united identity as Kogites rather than being identified based on ethnic divisions. He commended the current administration’s achievements in fostering peace and unity over the past seven and a half years.
Governor Bello, accompanied by Governor-elect Ahmed Usman Ododo, expressed gratitude to the traditional rulers for their prayers and the pivotal roles they played in ensuring the peaceful conduct of the November 11 election. He commended Williams Keke, the Aguma of Bassa, and Bukar-Khalid, the Ohiogba of Mozum, for their contributions to the peaceful election and the overwhelming victory for the APC in Bassa land.
The governor emphasized the need for collaboration among senatorial districts for the overall interest of the state, stressing that politics ends after elections, while development and good governance would continue. He underscored the importance of every part of the state feeling the impact of governance, regardless of political affiliations.
On Sunday, the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, declared Ahmed Usman Ododo the winner of the November 11 governorship election, having garnered the highest number of lawful votes, 446,237, defeating other candidates.
