By Muslimat Itopa
Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has called on the people of Kogi East to sustain the peaceful atmosphere witnessed during the just-concluded House of Representatives primary elections as preparations intensify for the senatorial primaries and subsequent elections in the state.
Governor Ododo made the appeal during an interactive session with stakeholders, youths and political leaders from Kogi East held on Sunday17th May, 2026, at the Government House in Lokoja.
The governor commended party faithful and residents of the district for what he described as an unprecedented display of political maturity, unity and peaceful coexistence during the APC House of Representatives primaries.
According to him, the peaceful conduct of the exercise reflected the growing stability within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and demonstrated the readiness of the people to place the collective interest of the state above personal ambitions.
“What happened yesterday showed maturity, togetherness, sincere love and understanding among our people. Election, whether primary or general election, has never been this peaceful and crisis-free in our state. We must appreciate ourselves for setting this example,” the governor stated.
Governor Ododo noted that the peaceful electoral process was built on the template established during previous rerun elections in the state, adding that the administration would continue to strengthen internal democracy, unity and dialogue among party members.
“We have laid this foundation in the last rerun election, and that is what we are building on today. I have no doubt that we will continue to work together as one family. The whole world can now see that Kogi East is united,” he added.
The governor urged aspirants and their supporters to accept the outcome of party primaries in good faith, stressing that losing an election should not be seen as political rejection.
“Those who did not emerge yesterday should not feel excluded. It does not mean they are not qualified or not part of Kogi East. It simply means that God is still working. We must continue to support one another for the progress of our people,” he said.
Governor Ododo also described the APC as a platform committed to infrastructural development, human capital advancement and inclusiveness across the state.
The governor further warned against divisive politics and external influences capable of disrupting the unity currently existing in Kogi East.
“We should not allow people from outside to come and create division among us. If we continue to work together sincerely, nobody will be able to take away what belongs to us,” he said.
Earlier in his remarks, the Deputy Governor of Kogi State, Joel Salifu Oyinbo, expressed appreciation to Governor Ododo for what he described as inclusive and people-oriented leadership across the state.
He said the peaceful conduct of the APC primaries reflected the governor’s commitment to sportsmanship, fairness and internal democracy within the party.
“We are here to appreciate you and assure you of our total support for the good work you are doing across every corner of the state. The peaceful primary election demonstrated your leadership style and commitment to peace within the party,” Oyinbo said.
The deputy governor also reaffirmed the support of Kogi East stakeholders for the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Ododo’s reelection ambition, assuring them of overwhelming votes from the district during the next general elections.
Also speaking at the meeting, the State Auditor-General, Yakubu Okala , commended the people of Kogi East for their loyalty and support for the present administration.
He noted that the conduct of party members during the APC primaries demonstrated unity and collective dedication toward the progress of the state.
“The people of Kogi East have shown that they can work together as one body. Their conduct during the primaries was commendable and worthy of appreciation,” he said.
Other stakeholders who addressed the gathering included Nicholas Ugbane, Dan Okolo and Memuna Audu.
The stakeholders praised Governor Ododo’s leadership style and pledged to sustain the existing peace in Kogi East while mobilizing support for the All Progressives Congress ahead of future elections in the state.
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings