By Ojotule Romanus
Residents of South-South extraction living in Kogi State, are targeting 60,000 votes for the re-election of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo; just as they have pledged to support Presidet Tinubu’s second-term ambition.
The group said Governor Ododo deserves another four-year mandate to consolidate the gains of his administration citing his people-centered leadership and developmental strides across the state.
The commitment was made during a courtesy visit to the governor in Lokoja by representatives of the six South-South states—Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo and Rivers.
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The delegation, led by their spokesperson and leader in Kogi, Abu Michael, maintained that the gathering was a demonstration of the South-South’s support for the governor’s re-election saying the visit was unprecedented in the state.
According to him, the visit also enjoyed the backing of Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, and the All Progressives Congress (APC) Chairman in Edo State, Jarret Tenebe.
He commended Governor Ododo’s performance during the APC primary and the 2023 governorship election, describing him as a dependable ally and a true friend of Edo people.
Highlighting achievements of the administration, the group praised interventions in key sectors, particularly healthcare, where over 110 Primary Healthcare Centres have reportedly been constructed and equipped across the 21 local government areas to improve access to affordable medical services.
In the education sector, they noted the renovation of more than 500 public schools, sustained free registration for WAEC, JAMB examinations, free basic and secondary education, as well as infrastructural upgrades in tertiary institutions including Kogi State University, Kabba; Confluence University of Science and Technology, Osara; and the College of Medicine, Anyigba.
The group also lauded improvements in workers’ welfare, citing prompt salary payments above the national minimum wage, a tax holiday for civil servants, and what they described as an end to delayed and percentage salary payments.
They further commended ongoing investments in aviation and commerce, including the development of a new airport and the construction of modern markets aimed at boosting internally generated revenue (IGR).
“Your Excellency, these achievements are not going unnoticed. The South-South community in Kogi stands firmly with you and appreciates your inclusive and people-oriented leadership,” Abu Michael stated.
In a strong show of political support, he declared: “We hereby pledge to deliver over 60,000 votes for your re-election in 2027. We overwhelmingly endorse Governor Ododo for a second term and will also support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all APC candidates in the state.”
Responding, Governor Ododo described the endorsement as unprecedented and reaffirmed his commitment to an inclusive administration that caters to all residents, regardless of origin.
He commended South-South residents in Kogi for their peaceful and law-abiding disposition, stressing that his government remains committed to delivering dividends of democracy across all sectors.
The highlight of the visit was the presentation of a souvenir and the conferment of the traditional title “Oshio of Edo Kingdom” on the governor by Chief Alex Odiase on behalf of the delegation.
The group concluded with prayers for continued wisdom and strength for the governor as he steers the affairs of the state.
