Emmanuel Ikpeama
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State says the peaceful conduct of Saturday’s Local Government elections in the state is clear proof that democracy is growing under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
The Governor stated this shortly after casting his vote at his polling unit in Upogoro, where he joined other residents to participate in the exercise.
Ododo commended President Tinubu for strengthening the nation’s security architecture and providing the enabling environment that allowed Kogites to come out and vote without fear of violence or intimidation.
According to him, Local Government elections in the past were characterized by bloodshed and destruction, but the exercise in Kogi has now taken the form of a peaceful carnival.
“In the past, Local Government elections used to be bloody. But we thank Mr President for giving us that confidence and supporting us to provide security for our people. You can see that Local Government elections are now just like a carnival,” the Governor said.
He noted that the confidence with which residents and visitors now move around the state is evidence of improved security, which he said is critical to economic activities, social life and democratic participation.
Read Also :Mopamuro LG Election Peaceful, Orderly – Fanwo, APC Candidates, Police Hail Residents.
Ododo explained that sustaining security requires enormous resources and sacrifices, stressing that the peace being enjoyed in the state is the result of deliberate efforts by his administration, with support from the Federal Government, to confront criminal elements.
The Governor, who described the election as free, fair and transparent, said his administration would not be distracted by social media controversies, adding that his focus remains on delivering good governance and protecting lives and property.
He said political opposition is welcome in a democracy but must be constructive and backed by a record of service, challenging opposition parties to present their achievements and explain how their ideologies have contributed to the development of Kogi State.
Ododo said after voting, he left the electoral process in the hands of election officials and expressed satisfaction with reports from across the state.
He thanked President Tinubu and the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for their support for Kogi State, and called for continued cooperation among stakeholders to sustain the peaceful atmosphere throughout the electoral process.
