By Joy Salami
The people of Ihima in Okehi Local Government Area have pledged unwavering support for the second-term bid of Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Usman Ahmed Ododo, commending his performance and vowing to embark on unprecedented grassroots mobilisation to secure his re-election.
The declaration came during a colourful solidarity visit to the Government House, Lokoja, where leaders of the Ihima Welfare Association (IWA), community elders, youth leaders, and other stakeholders turned out in large numbers to express their loyalty and appreciation for the governor’s developmental strides.
Speaking on behalf of the community, IWA President, Mallam Bello Abubakar, commended Governor Ododo for what he described as “unprecedented infrastructural development, youth empowerment, and inclusive governance” across the state.
He noted that Ihima had directly benefited from the governor’s policies, particularly in road construction, healthcare, and education, stressing that the people would stand firmly behind his re-election project.
” Your Excellency, Ihima has seen the positive impact of your leadership. We are not only here to thank you but to assure you that come the next election, Ihima will deliver. Our people believe in your vision and will give you overwhelming support for a second term,” Abubakar declared.
Governor Ododo, visibly moved by the endorsement, described it as a “motivating vote of confidence” in his administration and promised to redouble efforts in delivering people-oriented projects across the state.
This endorsement is humbling, and it comes with a greater responsibility to serve you even better. My administration will continue to prioritise infrastructure, education, and economic empowerment so that every community feels the impact of good governance,” the Governor assured.
Also speaking, the member representing Okehi Constituency at the Kogi State House of Assembly, Hon. Zakariya Otokiti, urged the Ihima community to remain united in their resolve, describing Governor Ododo as “a leader who delivers.”
This is our own project. Governor Ododo has proven his worth. Let us work together to secure continuity so the progress we see today will not be reversed, Hon. Otokiti stated.
Hon. Otokiti further revealed that the governor’s performance had inspired the Assembly to move a formal motion endorsing him for a second term.
“The motion was moved by myself as the Assembly member representing the constituency and seconded by the former House of Assembly member, Hon. Abdulkareem Kekere Sanni. We assure His Excellency of our commitment to reciprocating the great work his administration is doing in our district, the local government, and the entire state, by ensuring he returns to the Lugard House for a second term”, he added.
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Deedat Ozigi, applauded Ihima for openly demonstrating its loyalty, noting that such unity was a clear sign the people appreciated the governor’s developmental efforts.
“What you have done today is beyond politics; it is about recognising a leader who has the interest of the people at heart. I urge you to keep the faith and work hand-in-hand with this administration to bring even more progress to Ihima and Kogi State”, Hon. Ozigi said.
