Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo has praised President Bola Tinubu for supporting security in the state as local government elections held across all 21 council areas on Saturday.
Ododo spoke after voting at his polling unit in Upogoro, Okene, where he expressed satisfaction with the peaceful conduct of the election.
He said the atmosphere was different from past local government elections, which he said had been marked by violence and bloodshed.
Governor points to security as polls hold
“The peaceful atmosphere surrounding the exercise is a significant departure from the violence and bloodshed that has characterised Local Government elections in the past,” Ododo said.
He compared the election atmosphere to a carnival, noting that voters could participate without the tension and fear that had accompanied previous local government polls in parts of the country.
“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.
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Ododo said security was necessary to strengthen democracy and give citizens the confidence to take part in elections without fear.
He also said the state government was committed to protecting lives and property with support from the Federal Government.
The governor asked Nigerians to appreciate the resources and sacrifices required to maintain security. He said the relative peace in Kogi was the result of ongoing action against criminal elements.
He also pointed to the confidence with which residents and visitors travelled around the state, linking it to economic activities, social interaction and participation in elections.
Ododo challenges opposition parties
The governor said his administration would not be distracted by controversies on social media, adding that its priority was good governance and the safety and welfare of residents.
He called the election peaceful, free and transparent. He also maintained that political opposition was necessary for democracy but should involve constructive engagement and a clear commitment to public service.
Ododo challenged opposition parties to present their records and explain how their political platforms had contributed to the state’s development and the welfare of its people.
He expressed confidence in the All Progressives Congress (APC), crediting its leadership, including Tinubu, with supporting Kogi’s development and security objectives.
After casting his vote, the governor said he left the electoral process in the hands of election officials. He reiterated his appreciation to Tinubu for the Federal Government’s support to the state.
Ododo also called on political actors and residents to work together to maintain peace throughout the election. He said credible elections and security were necessary for democratic progress and grassroots governance.
WHAT READERS SHOULD KNOW
Election coverage: The local government elections took place across all 21 local government areas of Kogi State.
Voting location: Ododo cast his vote at his polling unit in Upogoro, Okene, on Saturday.
Security position: The governor credited Federal Government support and security measures with helping to maintain peace during the election.
Election assessment: Ododo called the poll peaceful, free and transparent.
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