By Onusi Abdullateef
As the November 11 governorship election approaches in Kogi State, hundreds of women under the aegis of Divine Women Group (DWG) in Lokoja Ward A, have declared their unflinching support for the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji Ododo Ahmed Usman and his Deputy, Comrade Joel Oyibo Salifu (JOS).
The women made their position known yesterday in Adankolo when they played host to Alhaji Ododo Ahmed Usman who was ably represented by his ally, Comrade Yakubu Siyaka Adabenege, popularly known as Fancy.
Speaking on behalf of the group, the Coordinator, Mrs. Ayo Folakemi who reiterated that the entire 100 polling units of Lokoja Ward A is locked down and firmly in support of APC, noted that the continuity quest of the party is their personal struggle as a result of the due recognition given to women in the past seven years of Governor Yahaya Bello’s administration.
“We are happy and honoured to have you in our midst today. We have diligently assessed candidates from the various political parties and I have the pleasure to announce to you, we discovered that only our party, the APC has the candidate that promotes and advocates the real Kogi development agenda. We are optimistic that our interest as women of this very important Ward will be catered for when Alhaji Ododo Ahmed Usman forms his government next year,” she said.
To ensure a resounding victory for the APC, Mrs. Folakemi disclosed that they have since commenced door-to-door campaign for Alhaji Ododo/Oyibo joint ticket, adding that the upgrading and renovation of Kogi State Specialist Hospital, the construction of GYB Model School in Adankolo and other infrastructural developments across Kogi State are compelling reasons to support the party in the next month’s governorship the election.
In brief remarks, Comrade Fancy expressed his excitement regarding the due acknowledgement of the women’s support, praising Governor Yahaya Bello’s detribalised inclusive approach to governance that was exhibited through fair distribution of appointments and infrastructural projects across the three Senatorial Districts of the state. Comrade Fancy assured the women that their interest would remain a priority under Alhaji Ododo Ahmed Usman’s administration when APC wins the November 11 governorship polls.
“I assure you that the dividend of this our collective struggle will get to you untampered with. Your interest as women will not suffer setbacks because the incoming Governor, Alhaji Ododo Ahmed Usman has been part of the administration that places high regard for women. Our quest for continuity is for the good of Kogi State and Alhaji Ododo will not disappoint you,” he said.
Highlight of the meeting was presentation of an award of honour to Comrade Fancy for his humanitarian contributions to women and girl child in the society.
