By ojotule Romanus
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has restated his administration’s readiness to partner individuals and groups committed to the development of Kogi State, as he formally welcomes political leaders and supporters from various parties in Dekina Local Government Area into the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The defectors who were in their numbers, were drawn from various political parties in Dekina Local Government Area, for the event held at the Government House, Lokoja.
The Governor commended the defectors for placing the collective interest of their people and the state above political affiliations, just as he emphasised that Dekina was a dependable partner in the development agenda of his administration.

He stressed that the welfare of the people remains the central focus of his government, assuring that his administration was ready to collaborate with individuals, groups and organisations whose vision aligns with efforts to reposition Kogi State for sustainable growth and economic prosperity.
The governor assured the delegation that the requests presented to him would receive due attention, announcing that work on the Dekina Township Road would commence soon alongside other critical projects requested by the community.

He also reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to deepen youth and women empowerment programmes, noting that stronger collaboration with critical stakeholders would broaden the reach and impact of government initiatives across the state.
Governor Ododo further highlighted Dekina’s vast agricultural potential, particularly in cashew production, saying strategic investment in the sector could transform the local economy, create jobs and boost the state’s internally generated revenue.

Earlier, the State Auditor-General, Yakubu Okala, described the defectors as respected political leaders, successful entrepreneurs and notable philanthropists whose decision ngthen the party in Dekina Local Government Area.
He said the defection ceremony, which attracted a large crowd of supporers, reflected the growing confidence of the people in Governor Ododo’s leadership and developmental vision.
Okala identified the leader of the delegation, Abubakar Abdulazeez, as a prominent Abuja-based businessman, alongside other eminent personalities from the area who have continued to contribute to the growth of their communities.
Speaking on behalf of the defectors, Abubakar Abdulazeez attributed their decision to join the APC to what he described as the governor’s remarkable development strides across Dekina and Kogi State, saying they were convinced to align with an administration that has demonstrated commitment to inclusive governance and people-oriented development.
According to him, their decision was not merely a political defection but a homecoming driven by a shared desire to contribute meaningfully to the continued progress of the state.
He thanked Governor Ododo for personally receiving them and for giving deserving sons and daughters of Dekina the opportunity to serve in key positions in his administration.
Abdulazeez used the occasion to appeal to the governor to sustain investments in road infrastructure and healthcare by upgrading and renovating health facilities in Dekina, while commending his inclusive style of leadership.
The defectors pledged their unwavering support for Governor Ododo’s administration, assuring him of their commitment to mobilising more people across Dekina Local Government Area in support of the government’s vision for a more prosperous Kogi State.
