By Muslimat Itopa
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has assured aspirants contesting for seats in the Kogi State House of Assembly under the All Progressives Congress (APC) of a free, credible, transparent and fair primary election.
The governor gave the assurance on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, while receiving 25 aspirants at the Government House in Lokoja, urging them to remain committed to internal democracy and grassroots engagement as the party prepares for its primaries.
Addressing the aspirants, Governor Ododo emphasized that the APC in Kogi State would uphold democratic principles by providing a level playing field for all contestants.
He noted that the party’s strength lies in its unity, discipline, and commitment to due process.
“We are going into this primary election very seriously. It is a contest within the family, and I will ensure a free, credible, transparent and fair process. No one should feel disadvantaged,” the governor said.
He urged the aspirants to return to their constituencies to engage with the people and sell their ideas, stressing that the primaries would serve as a test of their popularity and acceptance at the grassroots.
The governor also attributed the party’s internal stability and growing popularity to the leadership style of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whom he commended for laying a strong foundation for political inclusion and youth development since his days as Governor of Lagos State.
Ododo highlighted that the APC-led administration in Kogi has continued to build on that legacy by empowering young leaders and promoting continuity in governance
He said the large number of aspirants across the three senatorial districts reflects the confidence of the people in the party.
According to him, Kogi Central recorded over 132 aspirants, Kogi West over 130, and Kogi East more than 138, describing the figures as a demonstration of the APC’s dominance and acceptance in the state.
He further commended party stakeholders and aspirants who stepped down their ambitions in the interest of peace and unity, describing such actions as a sign of patriotism and political maturity.
The governor also used the occasion to highlight key achievements of the APC-led governments at both the state and federal levels, including improvements in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and human capital development.
He noted ongoing federal projects such as the Ajaokuta Steel revival efforts, the proposed airport, free trade zone, and agro-processing initiatives as evidence of the federal government’s commitment to Kogi State.
Governor Ododo reiterated that his administration remains focused on delivering people-oriented governance, including the provision of free education at the basic and secondary levels and improved access to primary healthcare services across the state.
Speaking on behalf of the aspirants, the Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Umar Yusuf, said the delegation visited the governor to formally present their nomination forms and seek his blessing ahead of the primaries.
He commended the governor for his leadership and efforts in streamlining the number of aspirants through consultations and stakeholder engagements, noting that the process has helped maintain peace and unity within the party.
Yusuf also praised the governor for fostering collaboration across political divides in the state assembly, describing it as a rare achievement that has strengthened governance and legislative harmony.
He expressed confidence that the APC would emerge stronger from the primaries and go on to secure victory in the general elections, citing the party’s performance and cohesion as key advantages.
The visit by the Aspirants is part of ongoing consultations within the APC in Kogi State ahead of its primary elections, as the party intensifies preparations for future electoral contests.
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