By Muslimat Itopa
Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has described the ongoing All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential primaries as a strong indication of the party’s commitment to internal democracy, urging members to sustain the same level of enthusiasm and unity ahead of the general elections.
Governor Ododo made the remarks shortly after casting his vote at his polling unit in Odenku, Upogoro Ward, Okene Local Government Area of Kogi State, during the APC presidential primaries.
The governor, who arrived at the polling unit in the company of party supporters participated in the exercise alongside other APC members in what he characterized as a peaceful, transparent, and credible democratic process.
Speaking with journalists after voting, Governor Ododo commended party faithful for turning out in large numbers to participate in the exercise.
“I want to sincerely thank our party card-carrying members for coming out en masse to participate in this primary election,” the governor said. “This level of participation demonstrates the strength of our democracy and the commitment of our people to the progress of the APC.”
Governor Ododo stated that the conduct of the primaries reflected President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s belief in democratic principles and due process.
“Mr. President is a firm believer in democracy, and what we are witnessing here today and across the state is a free, fair, transparent, and credible process,” he said.
According to the governor, President Tinubu has continued to demonstrate commitment to democratic ideals by encouraging open participation and fair competition within the party.
“He has always demonstrated his commitment to democratic ideals. As you can see, he submitted himself to this process just like every other aspirant. That is leadership, and we cannot thank him enough for laying this template and building a very solid foundation for younger generations to emulate,” Ododo added.
The governor also stressed the need for political parties and stakeholders to sustain the culture of internal democracy, noting that transparent primary elections remain critical to strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
The APC presidential primaries held across Kogi State witnessed active participation by delegates and party members, while security personnel and electoral officials monitored the exercise to ensure orderliness and compliance with electoral guidelines.
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