Angry Kogi youths and women in their numbers protested over the deplorable security situation in the state, calling on Muritala Yakubu Ajaka, the Social Democratic Party’s governorship candidate in the just concluded off-cycle election, and his supporters not to disrupt the state’s tranquility following what they described as his resounding defeat.
Emphasising that Kogi belonged to all residents regardless of political affiliations, the demonstrators paraded through Lokoja’s main streets in a peaceful march on Monday morning.
Read also:Security agencies disperse SDP protesters at INEC Office in Kogi State
They described the election as the most transparent in the state’s history and encouraged any aggrieved party to address concerns through proper channels rather than unsettling the electoral process or opposition.
Addressing the need to preserve peace, one protester, Dele, urged security agencies to ensure the state’s continued stability. Additionally, they called upon Governor-elect Usman Ododo to maintain the security achievements of the outgoing administration.
“Muritala Ajaka and these few SDP supporters should not overheat the polity unnecessarily. We take a serious exception to these actions that want to burn down the state. Elections have come and gone, and someone has won. If you’re aggrieved, follow the right channel,” the protester said.
Ireti Olukomogbon, speaking on behalf of young women protesters, expressed surprise at the SDP candidate’s attempts to stir conflict against INEC with baseless accusations.
She highlighted the fairness of the November 11 election in Kogi and urged the SDP candidate and supporters to embrace peace and collaborate with the elected candidate.
“Kogi people have shown clearly that they stand with the Kogi Agenda with their votes. If you’re aggrieved, go to court the proper way. As for youth and women’s demography, we will support Alhaji Usman Ododo to succeed,” she said.
