Ododo credits Tinubu’s support for peaceful Kogi LG polls

Florence Kalu

Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has commended President Bola Tinubu for his administration’s support for security efforts, which he said contributed to the peaceful conduct of Saturday’s local government elections across the state.

Ododo spoke shortly after casting his vote at his polling unit in Upogoro, describing the atmosphere as a significant improvement on previous local government elections, which he said were often characterised by violence, fear and destruction.

The governor expressed satisfaction with the conduct of the exercise, likening the peaceful atmosphere to a carnival rather than the tension that had accompanied local government polls in the past.

“In the past, local government elections used to be bloody. But we thank Mr President for giving us that confidence and supporting us to provide security for our people. You can see that local government elections are now just like a carnival,” he said.

He attributed the relative peace to efforts to tackle security challenges, adding that his administration would continue to work with the Federal Government to protect lives and property.

Ododo urged Nigerians to appreciate the resources and sacrifices required to maintain security, noting that a safe environment was essential for economic activities, social interaction and democratic participation.

According to him, the confidence with which residents and visitors move around the state reflects the importance of sustained security efforts.

The governor also said his administration would remain focused on delivering good governance and safeguarding residents’ welfare rather than being distracted by controversies on social media.

Describing the election as peaceful, free and transparent, Ododo said political opposition remained an important feature of democracy but should be driven by constructive engagement and a commitment to public service.

He challenged opposition parties to showcase their records and explain their contributions to the development of Kogi State and the welfare of its people.

The governor also expressed confidence in the All Progressives Congress (APC), acknowledging the party’s leadership, including Tinubu, for supporting the state’s security and development objectives.

Ododo said he was satisfied with the atmosphere at his polling unit after casting his ballot and left the conduct of the exercise to the electoral officials.

He called on political stakeholders and residents to sustain the peaceful atmosphere, stressing that security and credible elections were essential to strengthening democracy and grassroots governance.