… as he extends olive branch to opposition
The management and leadership of Fancy Media Team (FMT) has joined other people in Kogi State to congratulate the governor-elect, Alhaji Ododo Ahmed Usman (OAU) who was yesterday declared winner of the November 11 Kogi State Governorship election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
FMT noted with contentment that after months of intensive issue-based campaigns and consultations by the APC in the state, Alhaji Ododo, now Governor-Elect, polled a total of 447,237 votes to beat his closest challenger and Social Democratic Party (SDP) candidate who scooped a total of 259,052 in the election.
Meanwhile, in a rare show of sportsmanship, the Governor-Elect has in a maiden acceptance speech in Lokoja, extended an open invitation to candidates of other parties during the just concluded election and citizens of the state to join him in the onerous task of building on the development template that has been established by the current administration of Governor Yahaya Bello.
He said, “Now that the election has been concluded and a winner has emerged, it is crucial for all opposition parties and individuals to put aside their differences and come together for the collective interest of Kogi State.
“The progress and development of our state should always transcend political affiliations. By working together, we can harness the collective wisdom, skills, and experiences of all stakeholders to address the challenges facing our state.
“Governor Yahaya Bello has made significant strides in transforming Kogi State during since his assumption of office. He has laid a solid foundation that I am committed to building upon. I acknowledge Governor Bello as a critical stakeholder who will continue to guide me in my new office. His invaluable insights and experiences will be instrumental in ensuring a seamless transition and the continuity of positive governance in our state.
“I am fully aware of the various projects initiated by Governor Bello such as infrastructural development, agricultural reforms, youth empowerment programmes, and healthcare improvements. I pledge to continue these initiatives and build on the achievements of his administration. Together, we can take Kogi State to greater heights, ensuring sustained progress and prosperity for all its citizens.
“The successful conduct of a credible and transparent election would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of various stakeholders. I extend my deepest appreciation to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for their commitment to ensuring free, fair and credible electoral process. Their dedication to upholding the principles of democracy has earned the trust and confidence of the people of Kogi State.
“I also express my gratitude to the security personnel who worked diligently to maintain law and order during the election. Their professionalism and commitment to ensuring a safe environment for voters are commendable. Additionally, I acknowledge the contributions of other important agencies, such as civil society organizations, media, and the electorate, whose active participation and vigilance played a significant role in the success of the electoral process.”
Earlier in his address, Governor Yahaya Bello who appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice-president Senator Kashim Shetima, Progressive Governors, Minister for Steel Development Prince Shaibu Abubakar Audu and other stakeholders for supporting the APC candidate all through the campaign period, reiterated that the outcome of the election reflects the will of the overwhelming majority of the people of Kogi State.
He added that Kogi State is united more than ever before as reflected in the result announced by the INEC, noting that the seeming polarisation was merely constitutional rights of the people to express their political choices through the ballots.
