Kogi Polls Triumph: Ododo Praises Security for Flawless LG Elections
Kogi State's local government election concluded peacefully, with Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo crediting robust security measures for the smooth process. Reports from across the state confirmed significant voter turnout and timely arrival of materials, underscoring KOSIEC's preparedness. Key officials and candidates commended the orderly and fair electoral environment.
The recent local government election in Kogi State was characterized by peaceful conduct, a success that Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo attributed directly to the comprehensive security measures implemented by his administration. Speaking after casting his vote at his country home in Ukpogoro, Okene Local Government Area, Governor Ododo underscored the fundamental role of security in fostering sustainable development, asserting that no society can flourish without the adequate protection of its citizens' lives and properties.
Governor Ododo expressed strong optimism regarding the peaceful execution of the electoral process throughout the state. He also took the opportunity to commend the security agencies for their dedication and urged them to maintain their vigilance diligently, not only during the election but also in the periods leading up to and immediately following the exercise, to ensure continued stability.
Reports gathered from various parts of Kogi State corroborated the Governor's assertions, indicating a largely peaceful election day. Voters turned out in substantial numbers across different polling units to actively participate in exercising their democratic franchise. Furthermore, officials from the Kogi State Independent Electoral Commission (KOSIEC) demonstrated commendable preparedness, with election materials arriving promptly at various polling units from approximately 8:00 AM.
In specific areas like Ogori/Magongo Local Government Area, the enthusiasm of the electorate was palpable, with voters trooping out en masse. To ensure the integrity and orderliness of the process, security personnel, including officers from the Nigeria Police Force and local vigilante members, were strategically deployed to maintain law and order throughout the polling period.
Key stakeholders also shared their positive impressions of the election. Mr. Ezekiel Sunday Osiako, the All Progressives Congress (APC) chairmanship candidate, described the exercise as exceptionally orderly and peaceful after casting his vote at Oshobane Ward. He extended his commendation to the voters for their significant turnout and praised Governor Ododo and KOSIEC for creating what he termed a truly level playing field for all contesting candidates. Osiako further appealed to voters to remain calm and disciplined until the conclusion of the exercise.
Echoing these sentiments, Mr. Ebenezer Adurodija, Technical Assistant to the Kogi State Ministry of Information and Communications, lauded Governor Ododo and KOSIEC for orchestrating a seamless electoral process. Speaking after casting his vote at Eni Ward, Adurodija highlighted the early arrival of electoral officials and materials at polling units as a clear testament to the commission's thorough preparedness for the election.
Further affirming the positive conduct, the APC party chairman for Okehi local government area also praised the State Independent Electoral Commission (SIEC) for guaranteeing a fair and equitable environment for all political parties within the state. Speaking from his ward at Okaito/Usugwe, he specifically acknowledged the governor, the Auditor General for Local Government, Alhaji Siyaka Yakubu Adabenege, who hails from the area, and the various security agencies for their collective efforts in ensuring a peaceful election.