Traditional rulers in Kogi State have commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies and other stakeholders for the peaceful and credible conduct of the governorship election, which was held in the state last Saturday, 11th November 2023.
According to a statement on Wednesday by the Chief Press Secretary to the state Governor, Onogwu Mohammed, the traditional rulers “congratulated the Governor-elect, Usman Ododo and affirmed the traditional institutions’ commitment to continued collaboration with the Kogi State Government to enhance the unity and development achieved under the current administration”.
The monarchs spoke when they paid a congratulatory visit to Governor Yahaya Bello, 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, said the purpose of their visit was to celebrate with the Governor, Yahaya Bello, his administration, and the Governor-elect, Ododo, for the peaceful and successful governorship poll.
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 be cautious of information on social media, and where they were assured that the government and security agencies had implemented mechanisms for a peaceful election.
On the election in Okunland, the monarch stressed that the people were united in acknowledging and rewarding the governor for the positive impact of his administration.
He noted the confidence that if they had to do this again, the people of Okunland would not only deliver the entire Okunland but would also widen the margin of lead.
“We are appealing to Governor Bello to continue in 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 expressed.
Bello, accompanied by the Governor-elect, Ododo, expressed gratitude to the traditional rulers for their prayers and the pivotal roles they played in ensuring the peaceful conduct of the election.
He stressed the need for collaboration among Senatorial districts for the overall interest of the state.
“It is important for every part of the state to feel the impact of governance, regardless of political affiliations,” Bello said.
Earlier on Sunday, INEC declared Ododo the winner of the governorship poll with 446,237 votes.
