Usman Ododo, the Governor-Elect of Kogi, marked his triumph in Saturday’s election with a humble celebration—savoring a bowl of garri, a nod to his resilience during his school days.
He fondly recalled consuming garri as a means to endure the challenges of academic life. This simple act symbolized his journey from student struggles to political victory.
Having successfully navigated the electoral landscape, Ododo emerged victorious over his competitors, securing the governorship position.
In a display of solidarity, residents joined in celebrating the Governor-Elect, brandishing placards bearing messages such as “Kogi Has Decided,” “Kogi State Agenda,” and “Kogi State Election Was Peaceful.”
The spirited solidarity walk commenced at Ganaja Junction and proceeded to Government House, Lokoja—residence of the incumbent governor, Alh. Yahaya Bello. The atmosphere resonated with the triumphant spirit of the people.
A statement extending congratulations to the governor-elect captures the essence of this milestone:
“On behalf of the youths of Kogi State, we want to affirm that indeed, Saturday 11th November Governorship election in Kogi is the most peaceful, credible, free and fair election in the history of election in Kogi State. We are all out today to thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for creating an enabling environment for a free and fair election in Kogi State. We must also appreciate INEC for being very professional in their conduct during the election.
“Let’s also use this opportunity to congratulate His Excellency, Alhaji Ododo Ahmed Usman, our Governor-Elect on his victory and we urged him to consolidate on the numerous achievements of Governor Yahaya Bello, particularly in the area of Youths, Women, and People Living with Disabilities involvement and engagement in governance.
“Finally, we want to congratulate Kogites for coming out in their numbers to vote for a candidate of their choice in such a peaceful and orderly manner. We promise to support Ododo to succeed even as we urge him to be fair to all irrespective of ethnic or religious belief.”
Recall the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), on Sunday, November 12, declared Ododo winner of the Kogi governorship election. Mr Ododo won in 13 of the 21 local government areas in the States scoring a total of 446,237 votes.
