GOVERNOR BELLO CALLS FOR UNITY AS INEC PRESENTS CERTIFICATE OF RETURN TO GOVERNOR-ELECT, ODODO
…We’ll Run An All-inclusive Administration, Says Ododo
Kogi Polls Most Peaceful, Credible Says INEC Commissioner
Kogi State Governor, His Excellency Yahaya Bello, CON, has urged the people of the state to collaborate with Ododo in building a greater Kogi State for the betterment of all citizens and residents. Governor Bello made this appeal at the State headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Lokoja during the presentation of certificates of returns to the governor-elect, Ahmed Usman Ododo, and deputy governor-elect, Joel Oyibo Salifu on Friday, amid jubilation from a massive crowd of supporters.
Describing the moment as glorious after a rancor-free election, Governor Bello expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, APC National Chairman, and all stakeholders for their support in providing a level playing ground for all parties and their roles in ensuring the APC’s victory.
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Governor Bello emphasized that the election has concluded, a winner has emerged, and it is incumbent on all citizens of the state to cooperate and support the new administration of Ododo and Joel after their inauguration on January 27, 2024.
He urged the people to actively participate in working for the progress and unity of Kogi State, building and consolidating on the foundation of unity, togetherness, and development laid by his administration. The governor also appealed to candidates of opposition parties to join hands with Ahmed Usman Ododo and his deputy for the benefit of Kogi, assuring continued collaboration with security agencies to ensure the safety of lives and property.
“The election has come and gone, and a winner has emerged. I call on the people of the state to work towards the unity and togetherness our administration has achieved,” he stated.
Following the receipt of his certificate, Governor-Elect Ododo Ahmed Usman assured the people that he would fulfill his campaign promise to build on the achievements of Governor Yahaya Bello while preserving the unity of the state. Expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support received at the polls, Ododo described it as a consolidation of the strength and unity of Kogi State.
Promising to justify the confidence reposed in him, Ododo stated, “My administration will be committed to sustaining the youth and women empowerment programs of the present administration. My resolve to provide employment for our teeming youths and ensure that education occupies the front burner of our administration remains unchanged. I promise to serve the people with commitment, integrity, and fear of God, vowing to honor the responsibility entrusted to him.”
He encouraged every Kogite to join hands in building the Kogi of their dreams through unity and development, declaring, “My victory at last Saturday’s election is a victory for all. We will run an all-inclusive administration, where everyone, irrespective of tribe, religion, and political affiliation, will be carried along.”
Presenting the certificates to the winner of the November 11th Governorship election, INEC National Commissioner in Charge of North Central, Professor Adam Sani Muhammed, SAN, highlighted the commission’s commitment to ensuring a peaceful, free, and fair election in Kogi state. He acknowledged the commission’s efforts in conducting a credible poll, emphasizing that the November 11 election was the most peaceful and credible so far.
On Sunday, November 12, the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, declared Ahmed Usman Ododo the winner of the November 11 governorship election, having polled the highest number of lawful votes of 446,237 to defeat other candidates.
ONOGWU Muhammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
November 17, 2023
