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Tag: Ododo

  • Progressives urge Akpoti-Uduaghan to back Ododo

    Progressives urge Akpoti-Uduaghan to back Ododo

    A group, Corps De Progressives in Nigeria has urged the senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Mrs Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to back the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ahmed Ododo in tomorrow’s governorship election “in the spirit of Ebiraland unity”.

    The group made the appeal through a statement by its President, Yunusa Jimoh in Lokoja on Wednesday. The statement congratulated Senator  Akpoti-Uduaghan on her  victory at both the tribunal and appeal courts.

    It added that the “victory is seen as a clear testament to Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s acceptability and the trust she enjoys from the people”.

    Read Also: Ododo for Kogi Gov: The case for continuity, consolidation in education sector

    Appealing to her to let go of the past and focus on what will benefit the people of Kogi Central, the group expressed hope for a partnership with the lawmaker elected on the platform of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP).

    The statement reads: “In the spirit of unity and reconciliation, the group extended an olive branch to Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, acknowledging that her success was due to her perceived commitment to the development of Ebiraland. We urge her to set aside past disagreements and focus on the common ground that unites the people.”

  • Kogi PWD endorses Ododo

    Kogi PWD endorses Ododo

    The People with Disabilities (PWD) in Kogi State have endorsed the governorship candidate of the ruling All Progressive Congress Ahmed Ododo as the next governor in the state.

    The people with disabilities said they decided to endorse Ododo because of the high level inclusion of persons with disabilities being enjoyed under the Governor Yahaya Bello-led APC administration.

    Speaking on behalf of the PWDs, Mr. Ibrahim Arome said the group resolve was a product of massive consultation, noting that “Persons with Disabilities in our ways of life don’t just throw support behind people anyhow but we do take our time to access many things”.

    “We are glad to make it known to the entire Kogites, Nigerians and the world the reasons why we cannot afford not to support APC and its candidate.”

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    The PWDs said the structure of APC as a political party from the national, state, and local government and down to the ward level makes constitutional provision for the inclusion of persons with disabilities (PWD), pointing out that no political party in Nigeria has such constitutional provisions.

    “APC-led government under the leadership of former President, Muhammodu Buhari established the Disability Commission in 2018 as the first of its kind since the advent of democracy in Nigeria.

    “The APC led government in Kogi State under the leadership of Alhaji Yahaya Bello, has also demonstrated a high level of inclusion of persons with disabilities.

  • Ododo for Kogi Gov: The case for continuity, consolidation in education sector

    Ododo for Kogi Gov: The case for continuity, consolidation in education sector

    On November 11, 2023, Kogi State faces a pivotal decision as its citizens head to the polls to elect their next governor. Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, the flag-bearer of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), is vying for the position with a vision of Continuity and Consolidation. The question then is whether the incumbent Governor Yahaya Bello’s achievements make Continuity and Consolidation in the best interests of Kogi’s people.

    In other words, when we set aside politics, tribes, and religions, and focus solely on governance and leadership, what compelling case exists after 8 years of Governor Yahaya Bello’s New Direction Administration for voters in the Confluence State to elect Alhaji Usman Ahmed Ododo, his preferred successor? What dividends of democracy can we point to that Kogi voters should protect with their votes? What can the APC show after 8 years to justify an electoral transition from the GYB years to the OAU years?

    We will answer these questions firmly but objectively in the affirmative in a series of publications which will highlight the achievements of the Yahaya Bello administration in the core thematic areas that she set for herself. These are: Education, Healthcare, Infrastructure and Utilities, Security, Public Service and Pension Reforms, Agriculture, Human Capital Development, Youth Empowerment, Gender Equity, and Child Rights, with Agriculture, Cooperation, and Integration concluding the series.

    EDUCATION

    Before 2016, all levels of the educational sector in Kogi State were plagued by decaying infrastructure, non-payment of salaries, labor strikes, a shortage of academic staff, and poorly structured curricula, among other obstacles to quality and affordable education in the state. In just over the last 8 years, the New Direction Administration of Governor Yahaya Bello has completely transformed the education landscape in Kogi State for the better, and the sector is today a far cry from the widespread dilapidations that prevailed when Governor Bello took office in 2016.

    At the primary school level, the administration has constructed or reconstructed 1,767 classroom blocks across the state along with other infrastructure. These blocks are usually painted blue and white to distinguish them from the green and white structures built in counterpart funding with the federal government. Many schools in urban/semi-urban areas with internet access have also been equipped with ICT facilities in addition to adequate supply of learning materials and aids.

    When the Yahaya Bello administration took Office in Kogi State, she inherited billions of naira in unpaid counterpart funding to the Universal Basic Education Commission, a situation which denied the state access to much of the support which states receive from the federal government for basic education. The new government quickly settled these debts and has prioritized payment of all counterpart funding obligations, thus unlocking untold benefits for the state. No wonder the UBEC has consistently rated Kogi State a top performer amongst the 36 states and the FCT in basic education funding.

    The secondary schools in Kogi State have also enjoyed their fair share of attention from Yahaya Bello. They too have witnessed significant infrastructural enhancements across the three senatorial districts of the state. Modern classrooms, laboratories, ICT centres, and hostel facilities have been provided in many more schools. Notably, the administration’s efforts include the construction of GYB Model Science Schools in Adankolo, Ihima, and Kabba-Bunu. The total upgrade given to Government Secondary School, Ogugu led to her adoption by the federal government and redesignation as the Federal Science Technical College, Ogugu, one of the nation’s 104 unity colleges. Hostel facilities were also expanded such as the 50-bed capacity hostels at Government Girls’ Secondary, Obangede.

    Beyond physical infrastructure, the administration has significantly improved the quality and quantity of learning materials, teaching resources, and human capital for primary and secondary schools in the state. Governor Yahaya Bello introduced free and compulsory education for all children from kindergarten to secondary school, removing the burden of early and intermediate childhood education from caregivers. This has resulted in Kogi State having the fewest number of out-of-school children among the 19 northern states. This is surely a legacy that the people of Kogi State would want to protect with their votes.

    The case for Continuity and Consolidation in the tertiary education space is even more compelling. Governor Yahaya Bello has also taken giant strides in the tertiary education space in Kogi State with the flagship achievements being the establishment of 2 new state universities from scratch. The Confluence University of Science and Technology at Osara is focused on the STEM disciplines while the new Kogi State University (KSU), Kabba is a regular university founded to cater for both the sciences and the humanities.

    These duo of tertiary institutions have widened available university education options for the children of Kogi State by at least 50%. Governor Bello explained that his motivation for setting them up came from the administration’s findings that even with impressive scores in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), Kogi State indigenes were still disadvantaged in the admissions processes due to cutthroat competition for limited spaces and unfavorable catchment considerations. With particular reference to CUSTECH, the Governor said:

    ‘My Administration was greatly disturbed by the painful experiences of hundreds of Kogi youngsters who were unable to pursue careers in Science and Technology due to very limited openings in universities outside Kogi State…Over the years, access to such programmes as Medicine and Surgery, Pharmacy, Architecture, Engineering and others in this category kept dwindling for Kogi secondary school leavers…we decided to take action by establishing a specialized university of our own, dedicated to science and technology.’

    CUSTECH will be convoking her first batch of graduates in about a year’s time while Governor Bello has promised that KSUK which received regulatory approval only this year to commence will be matriculating her first batch within the same time frame. A promise which Ododo has reechoed in his manifesto and campaigns. This is an unprecedented feat and one struggles to find any other state in the country which has set up two universities under a single administration.

    The Yahaya Bello administration has also been feverishly engaged in improving both the academic and non-academic facilities of every other tertiary institution in Kogi State. At the premier university in Kogi State, the Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), formerly Kogi State University, Anyigba, infrastructural, curricular, and manpower needs have been met. Not only that, but the school, which used to have a vicious campus cult problem that claimed the lives of many students over the years, is now one of the most peaceful in the Federation. The Bello administration has decisively quelled the miscreants and established comprehensive security on campus and environs.

    Also, the school is expected to receive accreditation soon from the National Universities Commission and the professional regulators in the medical field for her College of Medicine to commence. Again, it was Yahaya Bello to the rescue. His administration has built and equipped a world-class teaching hospital for PAAU at Anyigba, thus meeting the regulatory prerequisite that held her back for nearly two decades. It is also important to note that the teaching hospital facilities are also a grand boon to overall healthcare in the university town, and indeed the entire Kogi East Senatorial District.

    Read Also: I will donate my kidney to Ned Nwoko rather than my father – Regina Daniels

    Additionally, through the direct intervention of the Yahaya Bello administration, the school has also enjoyed uninterrupted academic calendars since 2017, apart from a short break during the Covid-19 pandemic. It is practically the only public university in Nigeria where students have graduated on schedule in the last 6 years. This is a legacy that Alhaji Ododo has unequivocally undertaken to sustain, while some of his opponents in this election are willing to do anything to get elected, including striking deals inimical to the non-aligned status of the university in matters of unionism and industrial actions. Voters must choose carefully.

    The Kogi State Polytechnic (KSP), Lokoja, lies on the ever-busy Abuja-Lokoja-Benin Highway. It used to be nondescript, little more than a glorified secondary school to which no one paid any attention. Under the eagle’s eyes and with the generous support of Governor Yahaya Bello, it has transformed into a real center of academic excellence. It now boasts vastly improved infrastructure and highly expanded instructional capabilities. In June 2022, it received a historic 100% accreditation for all courses offered from all regulatory and professional bodies concerned, having met all requirements.

    In February 2023, the school, which used to be shunned by students and their parents, matriculated a huge crowd of 6,387 students for her National Diploma and Higher National Diploma courses. The Governor used the occasion to reiterate his commitment to making Kogi State a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education hub in Nigeria. Today, the enhanced attraction of KSP to new students and the 100% accreditation for all courses that it has attained represent definitive progress, which can only be sustained if the next Governor inherits Bello’s passion and vision for the institution. This is another reason why the NDBT concludes that Ododo is the man.

    The Yahaya Bello administration has also done great work with the state’s four existing technical colleges at Idah, Ihima, Mopa, and Ankpa, with extensive construction and renovation works still ongoing at the first two. The Kogi State Colleges of Education at Ankpa and Kabba also enjoyed huge attention from this progressive administration. Both have secured 100% accreditation for all courses offered for the first time in their history, like all the other tertiary institutions in the State. Again, the magic happened after the administration provided the infrastructural and instructional facilities demanded by the respective regulators.

    The School of Health Sciences and Technology, Idah also shares the same testimony of Bello Transformation. The school gained 100% accreditation for all courses offered under this administration, after over 40 years of existence, and both infrastructure and equipment have seen major upgrades. This is also the case at the Kogi State College of Nursing and Midwifery, Obangede, which, in addition to the 100% accreditation feat it attained under Yahaya Bello, was in April this year approved to offer HND training and certification in nursing to students. The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) gave approval for the HND program to begin this year, convinced that the school has been given the infrastructural and instructional resources to do so excellently.

    This administration has massively recruited instructors into her school systems at all levels and ensures that payment of teachers’ salaries is regular, and strong efforts to increase the amounts have been made severally. It also provides essential training and continuing learning for educators as crucial aspects of educational development in the state. Kogi State has also routinely dedicated 20 to 30 percent of her annual budget to education, although there are financial constraints to full performance. An Education Law made in 2020 codifies some of these reforms, but most will have to be sustained by a successor who truly believes long-term in what Yahaya Bello is trying to achieve in the education sector, hence Ododo.

    Governor Yahaya Bello’s legacies in the education sector are truly monumental. He has made a significant impact on Kogi State’s education sector during his two terms in office, touching every level of education. His successor must be one who will continue and consolidate on his achievements. Ododo’s clear and ambitious vision for Kogi State’s educational landscape, as outlined in his manifesto, focuses on improving teaching and learning quality, expanding educational access, and reducing the number of out-of-school children. Importantly, he is committed to continuing and consolidating the legacies, including the policy of free and compulsory basic and secondary education introduced by Governor Bello.

    In addition, Ododo’s leadership qualities and his deep involvement in Governor Bello’s New Direction Blueprint make him a highly qualified candidate for the role of Kogi State Governor. His unique position as the sole candidate in the race who can ensure the Continuity and Consolidation of the state’s progress sets him apart from the competition. In contrast, other candidates have yet to present clear manifestos or governance directions, with only a few days left to the elections.

    It is now the collective responsibility of voters to ensure that his legacy lives on through Alhaji Usman Ahmed Ododo. As a voter in Kogi State, you have the power to shape the future of this state. It is not just about choosing a leader; it is about choosing the right leader who can build upon the progress that has been made. Your vote can either secure the gains that have been made in education and other vital sectors, or risk disruption by choosing untested alternatives. This is why you should vote for Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo and Mr. Joel Oyibo Salifu for Continuity and Consolidation on November 11, 2023.

    The New Direction Blueprint Team is a multidisciplinary Policy, Research, and Strategy think-tank. It developed the New Direction Blueprint for Governor Yahaya Bello in 2016 and has monitored its implementation throughout his two terms. Led by the lead contributor, Moses Okezie-Okafor who is the Director-General of Research and Development in Kogi State, the NDBT believes that Continuity and Consolidation with Candidate Ododo will serve the people of Kogi State best at this time.

  • Ododo for Kogi Gov: The case for continuity. consolidation in health sector

    Ododo for Kogi Gov: The case for continuity. consolidation in health sector

    A careful analysis of the health sector before the advent of Governor Yahaya Bello’s administration shows that the sector was characterized by gross inadequate healthcare facilities exemplified by the insufficient number of healthcare facilities, poor infrastructure, inadequate manpower, and an almost non-existent drug supply. 

    Aside from healthcare facilities, a further assessment of the healthcare system in the state in terms of service delivery to patients revealed that service delivery which is an all-important indicator for the state is very poor. Healthcare services in the state are not of standard quality due to inadequate monitoring and evaluation of the activities of healthcare workers especially in the rural centers which is said to be a result of high levels of truancy and indiscipline among healthcare workers. With regards to the state’s low enrolment in the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), most citizens were either not aware such facilities existed or were unaware they were eligible and qualified to enlist. 

    Infant Mortality and Maternal Mortality rates are alarming in the country as a whole with Nigeria having the 7th highest infant mortality rate in the world as well as one of the highest maternal mortality rates. If the statistics are disheartening, the reality is even more depressing. A typical 70 percent of the health budget is spent in urban areas where about 30 percent of the population resides. With a population of about 4.5m and conspicuous absence of health facilities in many rural communities the situation was dire. Where any exists, the absence of qualified health professionals, lack of drugs and other essential medical supplies hampered service delivery. 

    These were prevalent realities on the ground when Governor Yahaya Bello took Office. In concrete terms, as of 2016, almost none of the PHCs in the State were functional. A general lack of political commitment to health development coupled with poor funding, and corruption had led to gross inequity in the distribution of health facilities and personnel. Today, however, that parlous trend has been completely reversed. A change in political leadership in the state ninety four months ago ushered in a new era of deliberate healthcare reforms in Kogi State built on a solid foundation of solid policies, targets and outcomes.

    HEALTH

    The last 7 years and 10 months have seen grand achievements in the Health Sector in Kogi State. A result of adherence to the New Direction Blueprint and sound implementation of policies and programs. The administration set her focus on excellence in Primary Health Care delivery for direct impact on the grassroots. Wholesale construction and reconstruction of Primary Health Care (PHC) Centres saw to the revamping of 332 primary health care centers across the state, such as those at Upagoro and Agassa. PHCs also enjoyed massive recruitment of qualified personnel earning competitive remuneration, rapid drug delivery services and upgrades in equipment and facilities, giving the healthcare sector in Kogi State, not only a facelift, but enhanced capacity to attend to immediate health needs of the citizens.

    Governor Yahaya Bello ditched the previous culture of mediocrity in public services for excellence by constructing a 300-bed World Class Reference Hospital in Okene, a 50-bed Ultra-Modern Hospital in Gegu Bekki. These are fully completed and equipped with world-class health facilities as at today. The Ultra-Modern Hospital in Eganyi and Isanlu both in Ajaokuta and Yagba East are almost at the completion stage. There is also massive rehabilitation of the State Specialist Hospital in Lokoja, Prince Abubakar Audu Teaching Hospital, Ayingba, and General Hospital, Idah which have been totally equipped with standard health equipment. 

    The Health sector also witnessed the codification of critical services into law through the presentation and passage of bills to that effect passed into law in record time to revolutionize the health sector. These include the Health Insurance Bill and the Primary Health Care Bill. Today, for the price of treating one bout of malaria, a Kogite who is enrolled into the Scheme can access one full year of healthcare services. The Health Insurance Scheme has so far absorbed the first batch of 15,000 citizens. These beneficiaries cut across all the 21 Local Governments in the state as well as non-indigenes. The Governor Yahaya Bello administration also purchased 23 Ambulances which would be distributed across all the local governments to attend to emergencies involving the citizens of the State. 

    Aside from the implementation of the revived COMMES 2014 Salary Structure for medical doctors and 100% CONHESS Salary Structure for nurses in the state, 2,424 health professionals were also recruited to help sustain health coverage in the State. The State has partnered with various organizations to deploy a sustainable Drug Revolving scheme which has made drugs available for the treatment of patients at various hospitals. Significant achievements have been recorded by the reduction in infant mortality rates, maternal mortality, malaria, and tuberculosis incidence as a result of the Governor Yahaya Bello Health Care Plus initiative. 

    Another critical achievement of Governor Yahaya Bello is his tactical leadership in the management of the COVID-19 pandemic that brought the world to its knees but came and went without Kogi State recording a single incident of the COVID-19 disease. 

    This administration has indeed achieved a lot in the Health sector, but to continue benefiting the populace, these gains need to be sustained and built on, while the policies need to be constantly upgraded. This is where citizens have to confront their need for Consolidation and Continuity and therefore the question of electing a successor who is trained in, committed to and able to maintain these reforms while managing the overall patrimony of the state for the long-term benefit of the State. 

    Alhaji Ododo Ahmed Usman has displayed the leadership credentials to carry on with the reforms of Governor Yahaya Bello. His manifesto has clearly shown that with his candidacy, the renaissance in the Kogi State health sector will have Continuity and Consolidation. Some of the focal health sector reforms identified in his manifesto include the following:

    ~ Managing the many secondary healthcare facilities newly built or renovated by the outgoing administration.

    ~ Setting up and equipping one Model Primary Healthcare Centre in each of the 239 political wards in the state.

    ~ Ensuring deployment of the optimal number of healthcare personnel to healthcare facilities and also providing Telemedicine to bridge the gap in manpower wherever necessary. 

    ~ Working to increase awareness and enrollment of citizens in the Kogi State Health Insurance Scheme and also expansion of the scheme to cover vulnerable populations such as the elderly, pregnant women, and people with disabilities.

    ~ Paying special attention to maternal and child health care, rehabilitation and mental health services, and healthcare support for vulnerable and people with disabilities amongst others.

    Read Also: Kogi poll, Ododo and prospects of continuity

    The November 11 2023 Gubernatorial Election presents us with Alhaji Ododo Ahmed Usman, the flagbearer of the All Progressives Congress (APC) who has been found both willing and able to uphold the signature legacies of Governor Yahaya Bello. He has demonstrated strong commitments to healthcare excellence even as a private citizen. This is evident in the cottage hospital he singlehandedly built in Upagoro community of Okene local government area to cater to the health of the people. 

    There is no doubt that Ododo has undergone tutelage of Governor Yahaya Bello for leadership qualities that would benefit the people of Kogi State. He is the only candidate running to consolidate and continue these transformational reforms for the future benefit of the citizens of Kogi State. It is expedient that as citizens go to the polls on November 11, they understand that they have a choice of going for long-term benefits or choosing a reversal of these great gains.

     The New Direction Blueprint Team is a multidisciplinary Policy, Research, and Strategy think-tank. It developed the New Direction Blueprint for Governor Yahaya Bello in 2016 and has monitored its implementation throughout his two terms. Led by the lead contributor, Moses Okezie-Okafor who is the Director-General of Research and Development in Kogi State, the NDBT believes that Continuity and Consolidation with Candidate Ododo will serve the people of Kogi State best at this time.

  • Kogi poll, Ododo and prospects of continuity

    Kogi poll, Ododo and prospects of continuity

    On Saturday, the governorship election will hold in Kogi State. Eighteen political parties are fielding candidates. Deputy Editor EMMANUEL OLADESU examines their chances

    The die is cast. Who succeeds Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello? At the close of poll on Saturday, Kogites will be warming up for a new era.

    Eighteen political parties are fielding candidates for the exercise. Prominent flag bearers are Usman Ododo of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC); Senator Dino Melaye of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP); Murtala Ajaka of Social Democratic Party (SDP); Leke Abejide of the African Democratic Congress (ADC); and Olayinka Braimoh of the Action Alliance (AA).

    Others are Kingsley Idoko Ilonah of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA); Dr. Samson Agada Omale of the Young Progressives Party (YPP) and Admiral Usman Jibrin of the Accord (A) party.

    Many issues will shape the exercise. They include the power of incumbency, performance of Governor Bello, personal qualities of the candidates, ethnicity, defections, and preference of the majority of voters.

    According to observers, Ododo, former Accountant-General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance, may be the man to beat.

    In the last eight years, APC has been the ruling party in Kogi. In the last seven and half years, the party has maintained a firm grip on the Northcentral state, installing senators, House of Representatives members and state lawmakers. The party accounts for the formidable structure behind Ododo, who is expected to get bloc votes from his native Ebira, while also garnering substantial votes from other local governments.

    The party is also the ruling party at the federal level. This may be a source of confidence.

    More importantly, the perception is that Bello has many achievements to his credit. Brave and confident, the governor has turned around the face of the Confluence State and fostered unity and harmony. There is no district where his impact is not felt. In fact, in the course of the campaigns, Bello has always pointed to his achievements, which are verifiable in the neigbourhood.

    Having put on ground a sound development template that would make his successor outperform him, Bello believes that that Ododo will live to expectation. The governor explained that the APC candidate, who has been part of his administration, understands how government works; he is tested, trusted, hardworking, patriotic and reliable.  The achievements highlighted by Bello include the allocation of 30 per cent of the budget to education, establishment of two state universities, regular salary payment, recruitment of over 1,500 teachers; allocation of 16 per cent of the budget to healthcare, improvement in healthcare delivery, setting up of a 300-bed reference hospital in Okene with modern equipment,  increasing internally generated revenue (IGR) from N250 million in 2016 to N1.5 billion, and reduction of the debt profile.

    Read Also: Kogi Gov poll: Igbo community pledges block votes for Ododo, APC

    Although there were hues and cries over zoning or rotation, Bello said he has been trying to change the orientation of the people so that they can appreciate their commonalities instead of emphasising those factors that have perpetually divided them.

    Currently, it appears there is no party that can match the APC in Kogi.The main opposition party, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), is depleted in the state in real terms. Its big wigs and key stakeholders are gravitating towards APC, although the victory of Senator Natasha Akpoti is a plus for the platform in her birthplace.

     Many of the PDP governorship aspirants have defected to the APC with their supporters. It was because the post- primary crisis was not well managed.

    Kogi West Senatorial District is thick with APC supporters. Ododo is likely to do well in the district, despite the agitation in some quarters for Okun to take the front seat. Those opposing the APC in the zone lacked a large following in real terms.

    Besides, the candidates from the district can only split votes, and not garner majority votes critical to victory. They are not sensitive to the strategy of collaboration and cooperation, having failed to step down for one another and present a joint platform. 

     The ADC candidate has won House of Representatives election twice. but his strength lies in his constituency. However, for the governorship election, he may not be able to have the spread due to his limited structure.

    The strong ADC members who were with him during his House of Representatives struggle have moved  to the ruling party, led by their State Executive Committee members.

    The defection of the former deputy governor,Yomi Awoniyi, an architect, to the APC is also a big plus for the ruling party.

    Kogi East may be the battleground. SDP members make the most noise in the zone. The leading lights of the opposition party make divisive comments, thereby trying to alienate other ethnic groups. While they have portray Bello as a common enemy, the masses do not believe the wrong labeling.

    In Igala land, there are some forces that are not making noise like the former Chief of Naval Staff, who is the Accord Party candidate. From independent polls, he seems to have more following, especially at the grassroots. Some elite are also backing him, although they lack mobilisation prowess. But, the Accord Party candidate, who seems to be going on strongly, is not doing much better than his APGA counterpart.

    A lot of voters may also be disenfranchised, especially with the threat of violence. Voters are not prepared for gambling. That is why they want those on the ballot to respond to the allegation of certificate forgery against them. If the allegation is proved beyond reasonable doubt, then, the ticket is endangered.

    The Director-General of the APC Governorship Campaign and Minister of Steel Development, Shaibu Audu, is expected to pull votes from the East. He is the face of his illustrious father, former Governor Abubakar Audu, who missed being a second term governor, following his sudden demise on the eve of victory. His father’s loyalists and the family are genuinely with the APC in the struggle.

    Also, the deputy governor, Edward Onoja, who was in the race for governor, is also rooting for Ododo, despite his initial protest.

    The ruling APC is enlarging its coast daily. Defectors are moving into the party. They include big wigs from opposition parties, former senators and other grassroots actors. A source hinted that former governors from the East District are with the APC, although they have not shown their support through physical identification. “We saw the son of Ibrahim Idris the other time at the APC rally, defecting publicly. He came out to make a point,” the source added.

    Also, many people who served under former Governor Idris Wada have moved to the APC. The implication is that there may be split votes. Analysts contend that APC may spring surprise because of its strong structure and commitment of stakeholders.

    Kogi Central seems to be a no-go area for the opposition. It is the base of the APC candidate. The zone has produced Senator Akpoti. But, they are also willing to produce the next governor. In fact, natives are returning hom from the Diaspora to prove a point..

  • Igbo community in Kogi: we’ll deliver bloc votes for Ododo

    Igbo community in Kogi: we’ll deliver bloc votes for Ododo

    The Igbo Community Association (ICA) in Kogi State has promised to vote for the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Usman Ododo.
    ICA gave the assurance at the weekend during a meeting with Governor Yahaya Bello and the candidate.

    Speaking on behalf of the group and residents in Kogi State, the coordinator of Igbo Groups Backing Ododo (IGBO), Hon. Moses Okezie-Okafor, expressed gratitude for the Yahaya Bello administration’s consistent friendship to the Igbo community.

    Okezie-Okafor, a lawyer, who hailed from Anambra State, emphasised that Ndigbo in Kogi State are equal partakers in the achievements, covering all sectors and constituencies in the state.

    He noted that the APC candidate’s slogan of ‘continuity and consolidation’ was therefore founded on solid realities, and urged his people to vote to sustain the same.

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    The President ICA in Lokoja, Chief Sunday Nwachukwu, who doubles as the leader of the delegation, confirmed that the Igbo Community can attest to the government’s impressive efforts in good governance across the state.

    Nwachukwu assured of the community’s support for Ododo, being a candidate that will maintain the momentum set by the Governor.

    Responding, Ododo, who highlighted the long-standing friendship with Ndigbo, promised to sustain and enhance the administration’s accomplishments if elected.

    Ododo assured the Igbo leaders of continued delivery of democratic benefits to Kogi State and increased involvement of Ndigbo in the government.

    The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Barr. Deedat Ozigis, who represented the Governor, praised Igbos contributions to the state’s progress and total absence from the crime scene in Kogi State.

  • Kogi Gov poll: Igbo community pledges block votes for Ododo, APC

    Kogi Gov poll: Igbo community pledges block votes for Ododo, APC

    In less than one week to governorship election in Kogi State, the Igbo Community Association (ICA) in the Confluence State has pledged 100 percent block votes to ensure an overwhelming victory for the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its governorship candidate, Usman Ododo.

    The group assured Governor Yahaya Bello, of an unflinching support for his administration as the November poll approaches.

    The Igbo community gave these assurances during the weekend while holding a meeting with Bello and Ododo, during which they pledged total support for the APC candidate.

    Speaking on behalf of the people of South East extraction, who are residents in Kogi State, the coordinator of Igbo Groups Backing Ododo (IGBO), Hon. Moses Okezie-Okafor, expressed gratitude for the Yahaya Bello Administration’s consistent friendship to the Igbo community while highlighting the great achievements of the administration.

    Read Also: Govt to close part of Third Mainland Bridge for repairs

    Revealing that he has served for over seven years in the Kogi State Executive Council courtesy of Governor Yahaya Bello’s merit-based leadership, Okezie-Okafor, a lawyer who hailed from Anambra State, emphasised that Ndigbo in Kogi State are equal partakers in the achievements, which he explained covers all sectors and constituencies in the state, especially education, infrastructure and healthcare.

    He noted that the APC’s candidate’s slogan of ‘Continuity and Consolidation’ was therefore founded on solid realities and urged his people to vote to sustain the same.

    The President of the ICA in Lokoja, Chief Sunday Nwachukwu, who doubles as the Leader of the Delegation, confirmed that the Igbo Community is a witness to the government’s great efforts in good governance across the state while expressing the group’s appreciation to the Governor.

    Nwachukwu assured of the community’s support for Ododo, being a candidate that will maintain the momentum set by the Governor just as he noted that by his track records, Ododo has proved himself beyond doubt.

    Other speakers in the delegation including the youth and women leaders concurred with the previous speakers, assuring that the Ndigbo in Kogi State will use their votes to speak with one voice on Saturday.

    The APC candidate, Ododo, in his response, highlighted the long-standing friendship with Ndigbo and promised to sustain and enhance the administration’s accomplishments if elected. Ododo assured the Igbo leaders of continued delivery of democratic benefits to Kogi State and increased involvement of Ndigbo in the government.

    Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Barr. Deedat Ozigis, who stood in for the Governor, responded positively to the Igbo Community’s requests, praising their contributions to the state’s progress and total absence from the crime scene in Kogi State. He urged them to maintain their focus and enterprise while urging them to vote for Alhaji Usman Ododo in the upcoming gubernatorial poll on November 11 in order to keep alive the accomplishments of the Yahaya Bello administration, for which they have shown themselves appreciative.

    The meeting concluded with the delegation presenting a thank-you gift to the Governor on behalf of Ndigbo in Kogi State.

  • Kogi guber: Ododo is best man for the job, says Bello

    Kogi guber: Ododo is best man for the job, says Bello

    Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello yesterday described the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Usman Ododo, as the best man for the job.

    The governor returned to his native Ebiraland to campaign for the former Accountant-General, who he said will surpass his achievements.

    A large crowd of party faithful and supporters converged on Okene, where Bello raised Ododo’s hand and called for endorsement by the natives.

    Some chieftains of opposition parties defected to the ruling party at the rally.

    Excited at the crowd, thd governor, who also tendered his stewardship, thanked the people for their support.

    He thanked President Bola Tinubu for his quality leadership and unflinching support for Kogi State, adding that the party in the APC chapter will not disappoint him on November 11.

    Bello said: “This unprecedented crowd is an indication that the APC has won. We have no opposition in Kogi Central and in Kogi State. We did it before, we will do it again come November 11.

    “As an administration, we have done our best by uniting the people of the State. We met, on assumption of office, fault lines of disunity, ethnicity and injustice. But under our administration, we have been able to mend all the fault lines and Kogi state is now united.

    “We have created employment. We built infrastructure. We empowered our women and youth like never before under any administration in the State since creation. We have made fairness, equity, justice our priority.

    Read Also: Yahaya Bello: No assassination attempt on my life

    “I can assure you that we are leaving Kogi State better than we met it for the incoming administration. Alhaji Usman Ahmed Ododo is a capable hand. He is competence personified. Let’s support him to build on the legacies we have created.”

    The governor assured that the elections would be violence-free, urging them to come out on poll day to cast their votes for APC.

    He said would his the ground running, provide jobs and foster unity, if elected.

    Bello urged security agencies to continue the good job they had been doing in the state and clamp down on criminals before, during and after the elections.

    The Minister of Steel Development and Director General, Kogi State APC Governorship Campaign Council, Shaibu Abubakar Audu, said APC will retain the state.

    He said: “This crowd gathered here today is unprecedented in the political history of Kogi State. In my years of following the politics of Kogi State, without mincing words, this is a game changer, a final nail on the aspiration of the opposition political parties in the State.

    “The vision of Alhaji Usman Ahmed Ododo, which has attracted this crowd is to provide agricultural revolution across the State, with massive crops produced across the senatorial district. We are here to pursue a Kogi agenda and not an ethnic agenda. The incoming administration will build on the legacies of Governor Yahaya Bello in massively providing infrastructure and empowerment for the people.

    “The federal government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is interested in the revitalisation of the Ajaokuta Steel Plant. He has asked that Ajaokuta be declared an industrial park. The President is also interested in ensuring that the free trade scheme across Nigeria is reviewed so that Ajaokuta can be declared a free trade zone.”

    Audu added: “Once that is done, it would create massive jobs; 500,000 direct and indirect jobs will be created for our teeming youths. This is the reason the President is concerned and has said we cannot afford to outsource a critical State like Kogi State to a hostile opposition party. Kogi State will remain an APC state.”

    The Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mohammed Jamiu Asuku, said the people of Kogi Central had, by the mammoth crowd, testified to the great achievements of Bello.

    He said: “The mammoth crowd is a testimony that indeed Governor Yahaya Bello has done more than enough for the people of the State. The mammoth crowd is a testimony that indeed the APC has chosen an acceptable candidate.

    “The people of Kogi Central have, by today’s turnout, resolved to vote massively for Alhaji Usman Ahmed Ododo and Comr. Salifu Joel.”

    A community leader, Hajia Halima Alfa, commended Bello, describing him as a prophet well respected at home.

    She said: “I have never seen this kind of crowd in Kogi State in my entire political life, since I started attending rallies in 1999. Kogi Central is no doubt APC. History will no doubt be made come November 11, as the district will produce the highest vote for the APC.”

    Mohamed Idris, son of former governor of Kogi State, Ibrahim Idris, who publicly declared his support for the APC candidate, urged the people of Kogi Central, and the state at large, to follow the man and party that know the road, insisting that there was no vacancy in Lugard House for opposition parties.

    Ododo said he would not fail Kogi, urging the people to vote for him.

    He said: “I will continue to deliver on the mandate of our party for the development of Kogi State and the wellbeing of our good people. We are serious about meeting the yearnings and aspirations of our people. We have been doing that under my mentor, Governor Yahaya Bello, and we will continue to do so.”

  • Kogi East locked down as thousands rally for APC’s Ododo

    Kogi East locked down as thousands rally for APC’s Ododo

    Residents of Kogi East Senatorial District trooped out in their thousands in Anyigba on Saturday for the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Usman Ododo. 

    They promised to strengthen the unity of the State by delivering massively for the APC in the November 11 governorship election.

    The Igala indigenes, especially the critical stakeholders of the Social Democratic Party(SDP) Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and African Democratic Congress (ADC) who defected publicly to the ruling APC at the Kogi East Senatorial District Rally, as well as other illustrious Igala sons and daughters, said the crowd witnessed on Saturday was unprecedented of in the history of electioneering in Kogi East. 

    They promised to deliver massively for the APC in the election to pave the way for the continuity of what they described as the detribalised and purposeful leadership of Governor Yahaya Bello, which had brought unity and sincere development to all parts of the state, noting that there was nothing like ethnic agenda in the dictionary of patriotic citizens. 

    Director General, Kogi APC Governorship Campaign Council, and Minister of Steel Development, Shaibu Abubakar Audu, said the only agenda for the APC was the Kogi agenda, adding that the party’s candidate was coming to build and consolidate on the laudable legacies of Governor Yahaya Bello. 

    “The only agenda for the APC is the Kogi Agenda. The Party has the interest of the whole State. Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo has a vision for the development of the entire State. He will build and consolidate on the legacies of Gov Yahaya Bello. 

    “We are proud today that Kogi is the most secured State in North Central Nigeria. The APC will provide massive jobs for our teeming youths through agricultural revolution. The APC is working on expanding the capacity to be able to produce several agricultural produce, particularly in Kogi East. 

    “I urge you to support the APC and Alhaji Ododo. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who appointed me as Minister of Steel Development, is interested in the vision and success of Kogi State through the development of Ajaokuta Steel. 

    “This will enable the provision of massive jobs for the entire youths of our dear State. He has asked that we do not hand over the State to a hustler government or to an opposition government. The President is concerned about the State and has said we cannot afford to handover a strategic State to the opposition,” he stated. 

    The Chairman of APC in Kogi State, Abdullahi Bello, expressed satisfaction with the massive turnout and enthusiasm displayed by the people of Kogi East and urged them to sustain the tempo to pave the way for landslide victory in the governorship election. 

    The lawmaker representing Kogi East in the National Assembly, Senator Jibrin Echocho, called on the people of Kogi East who had yet to come into the APC fold, to embrace the party, pointing out that elections are won on party structures. 

    “Let me appeal to our people to be passionate with the APC. Our candidate is marketable. Elections are won based on Party structures. The people of Kogi East voted APC in the general election. We cannot afford to do otherwise in the forthcoming election. 

    “Governor Bello has laid a solid foundation in infrastructure, human capital development across the State. His achievements have done the major part of the election. Let’s all join hands in ensuring collective victory for the APC,” Echocho said. 

    Kogi Deputy Governor Edward Onoja urged the people of Kogi East to vote on the strength of continuity and cautioned against sentiments, saying that elections are about political parties and not tribe, religion or region. 

    Governor Yahaya Bello cautioned the people against ethnicity, stressing that tribal politics had no place in this time and age. 

    “Ethnic politics is selfish interest. Igala agenda is about job creation, development, prosperity. Don’t be deceived. The APC will win landslide. Victory will be ours at the election. Alhaji Usman Ahmed Ododo is a refined gentleman with cognate experience in public service and in politics. 

    “On assumption of office, we met a state divided along ethnic and other fault lines. We have been able to cement all those fault lines. Today, issues of ethnicity have been buried. Fairness, equity, justice have replaced mediocrity, ethnicity. 

    “We have raised youths and women across board. We have built and distributed projects, infrastructure and empowerment across board. So much has been achieved in the State and we cannot afford to go back to our dark days,” the Governor said. 

    APC governorship candidate, Ododo, said his aspiration was about the people, progress and unity of the State. 

    Read Also: Ododo will build on our achievements, says Bello

    “Let me appeal to the people of Kogi East. Let’s build a united and stronger Kogi State which we all can be proud of. Let this election be about our people, development, unity and prosperity. It is my fervent appeal that I’m ready to be a servant leader with no barrier,” he said. 

    The APC Governorship Candidate thanked Governor Bello for his outstanding achievements and promised to build on the legacies. 

    While telling Igala people that it would be counter-productive to play ethnic and minority politics, he specifically thanked President Tinubu for his outstanding leadership and commitment to the growth and development of Kogi State and Nigeria at large. 

    Highlights of the rally was the official welcoming of decampees from the PDP, SDP and other political parties to the APC.

  • Ododo will build on our achievements, says Bello

    Ododo will build on our achievements, says Bello

    Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has emphasized that the achievements of his administration will be consolidated and sustained by Ododo Ahmed Usman, the APC governorship candidate  in the  November 11 polls.

    The governor gave this assurance at the Glass House in the Government House, Lokoja, yesterday when he received members of the Ebira Peoples Association, Lokoja branch.

     Bello assured the people that, under the leadership of his successor hopeful, Ahmed Usman Ododo, all the aspirations for good governance, unity, and the security of lives and property of citizens will be strengthened.

    Read Also; Buildings constructed without permit will be demolished – LASG

    He urged the people to peacefully campaign for the APC governorship candidate, Ododo and his running mate Joel, in preparation for the November 11 polls, assuring that the ruling party would achieve a landslide victory.

    Earlier, the Chairman of the Ebira Peoples Association, Kogi State Chapter, Mr. Moses Momoh, praised Governor Yahaya Bello for his impactful leadership over the past seven years.

    He stated that the Ebira nation would not forget the restoration of peace and security to Ebiraland, particularly, and the state in general by the administration of Yahaya Bello.

    “The Ebira Peoples Association worldwide and other socio-cultural groups in Kogi State take pride in your achievements over the last seven years. We remember the security situation in our state before you assumed office in 2015. Prior to 2015, many of our people were displaced from their homes due to domestic violence, kidnapping, thuggery, and other social vices across the state. But today, the story is different. We are proud of your achievements and those of the APC-led governments at both federal and state levels,” he stated.

    The socio-cultural association pledged their unwavering support for the APC governorship candidate for the November 11 polls, Ododo Ahmed Usman and his running mate, Joel Oyibo Salifu assuring the governor of their commitment to leveraging their connections with other socio-cultural associations in the state to mobilize support for Ododo.