The Kogi State Traditional Council of Chiefs, has commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) security agencies and other stakeholders for the peaceful and credible conduct of the governorship election,in the state on Saturday, November 11.
The President of the council, Atta Igala Mathew Alaji Opaluwa Ogwuche-Akpa, gave the commendation when he led other traditional rulers to pay a congratulatory visit to Governor Yahaya Bello, on Tuesday in Okene.
Opaluwa-Akpa also congratulated the winner of the election, Ahmed Usman Ododo and affirmed the traditional council’ s and support commitment for him.
He also promised to continue to collaborate with the Kogi State Government to enhance the unity and development achieved under the current administration.
The traditional rulers said their visit was to celebrate with the Governor, his administration, and the Governor-elect, Usman Ododo, for the peaceful and successful governorship polls held on November 11, 2023.
Represented by Obaro of Kabba, Oba Solomon Dele Owoniyi, the traditional ruler recalled their peace accord meeting with relevant stakeholders before the election.
He said the stakeholders 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, Oba Solomon stressed that the people were united in acknowledging and rewarding the governor for the positive impact of his administration.
He expressed 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.
Oba Solomon appealed to Governor Bello to continue in his efforts at strengthening the bond among the people of Kogi State, calling for a united identity as Kogites rather than being identified based on ethnic divisions.
He commended the achievements of the current administration in fostering peace and unity over the past seven and a half years.
Governor Bello, who hosted the traditional rulers in company with the Governor-elect , Ahmed Usman Ododo, expressed gratitude to the traditional rulers for their prayers and the pivotal roles they played in ensuring the peaceful conduct of the November 11 election.
He commended the Ahuma of Bassa, Williams Keke and Alhaji Bukar Khalid, the Ohiogba of Mozum, for their contributions to the peaceful election and the overwhelming victory for the APC in Bassaland.
The governor emphasised the need for collaboration among senatorial districts for the overall interest of the state.
He emphasised that politics ends after elections, while development and good governance would continue.
The governor also stressed the importance of every part of the state feeling the impact of governance, regardless of political affiliations.
The INEC, had declared Ahmed Usman Ododo of the APC as winner of the November 11 governorship election, having polled the highest number of lawful votes of 446,237 to defeat 16 other candidates. (vitalnewsngr.com)
