By Abah Benjamin Eneojoh
May 14, 2026
Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has called on the people of Igalamela/Odolu Local Government Area to remain united and resist attempts by selfish politicians to sow division ahead of future elections, urging residents to sustain their support for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The Governor made the appeal on Thursday during a high-level interactive session with stakeholders, traditional rulers, youth leaders, women groups, and political actors from Igalamela/Odolu at the Government House in Lokoja.
Speaking passionately at the gathering, Governor Ododo emphasized that political leadership should be driven by service to the people rather than personal ambition, stressing that unity remains the strongest tool for sustainable development and political relevance. In his words,
“We are not fighting for personal interests; we are fighting for the interests of the people,” the Governor declared. “What happened in 2023 is part of God’s divine arrangement. Now is the time for us to close ranks, work together as one family, and move Kogi State to greater heights.”
Governor Ododo noted that the APC-led governments at both the state and federal levels have continued to open doors of opportunity and recognition for Kogi State, particularly the people of Kogi East.
He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing sons and daughters of Kogi East into strategic federal positions, describing the gesture as a demonstration of inclusiveness and confidence in the capacity of the region.
According to the Governor, the people must reciprocate the support and goodwill by standing firmly with the APC and the Tinubu administration.
“The APC remains the only party that has truly given this state the recognition it deserves,” he said. “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has demonstrated genuine support and inclusion for our people. Supporting this administration wholeheartedly can never be a mistake.”
Governor Ododo further cautioned against political disunity and external manipulation, warning that division among the people could undermine development efforts and weaken the collective strength of the area.
“All I’m pleading with you is that we should never allow ourselves to be used against one another. Once we are divided, we destroy not only ourselves but also the future of our land,” he added.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Mrs. Eunice Achimugun expressed appreciation to the Governor for granting the stakeholders audience and lauded his commitment to the welfare and progress of the people of Igalamela/Odolu.
She disclosed that the Governor’s leadership style has continued to inspire excitement and confidence among youths and women across the local government area.
“We are deeply grateful for all you have done for our people,” she stated. “Your administration has consistently shown love, unity, and genuine concern for the wellbeing of the people.”
Earlier, the Chairman of Igalamela/Odolu Local Government Area, Cosmos Atabo, praised Governor Ododo for his people-oriented leadership style, commitment to continuity in governance, and dedication to workers’ welfare.
He affirmed that the people of the local government remain satisfied with the administration’s developmental strides and assured the Governor of their unwavering support.
In separate goodwill messages, notable political figures including Friday Sani Makama, Baron Okwoli, and the Etemahi of Igalamela, HRH Abel Etu, commended Governor Ododo for appointing indigenes of the area into strategic positions in government.
The leaders reaffirmed their support for the re-election of Governor Ododo and President Tinubu, while passionately appealing to the state government to prioritize the construction of the Nsukka–Odolu–Idah road, which they described as a major challenge affecting residents, businesses, and commuters across the area.
