Yomi Awoniyi, the former Deputy Governor of Kogi State, has made a significant political move as he recently announced his membership in the All Progressives Congress (APC).
This decision comes in anticipation of the upcoming governorship election scheduled for November 11 in the state. The official reception of Awoniyi into the APC took place at the party’s national headquarters in Abuja on a Tuesday.
He expressed his admiration for Governor Yahaya Bello‘s “exemplary leadership, commitment to inclusivity, unity of purpose, and governance.”
Awoniyi was deputy governor from 2011 to 2015 during Idris Wada’s administration.
The former PDP chieftain acknowledged the complexities and challenges of Kogi State politics and commended Bello for exceeding expectations.
He said, “I served as the Deputy Governor of Kogi State between 2011 and 2015. I know the state very well, and I can tell you that the current governor has done exceptionally well in terms of leadership and good governance. His humility is unmatched, and his ability to unite the people is remarkable.
“These qualities are some of the reasons I decided to join the APC and offer my support to him and the incoming administration.”
Bello, while welcoming Awoniyi, whom he described as a “big fish”, said his decision to join the APC was significant.
He stressed that Awoniyi’s move was a clear demonstration of the people’s satisfaction with his achievements and their willingness to support his leadership for the state’s success.
“I am pleased to welcome the former Deputy Governor of Kogi State, Arc Abayomi Awoniyi, into our party today. Awoniyi is a prominent figure who has just joined a significant movement. I am delighted with his decision to join our party, and I can assure you that the APC will do more for the people of our state,” the governor stated.
APC national chairman Abdullahi Ganduje commended Awoniyi for his decision to join the APC.
He pointed out the increasing number of defections from opposition parties to the APC in Kogi State, under Bello’s leadership. This served as compelling evidence of the governor’s accomplishments and his capacity to unify people for the betterment of society.
Ganduje provided assurances to Awoniyi and other individuals who had recently joined or were considering joining the APC, promising them equal opportunities within the party.
