They congratulated the Governor-elect, Usman Ododo and affirmed the traditional institution’ commitment to continued collaboration with the Kogi State government to enhance the unity and development achieved under the current administration.
The traditional rulers spoke when they paid a congratulatory visit to the state governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello CON, at his GRA residence, in Okene, on Tuesday.
This was contained in a press release by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Onogwu Muhammed.
The Atta Igala, His Royal Majesty Mathew Alaji Opaluwa Ogwuche-Akpa, said the purpose of their visit was to celebrate with the governor, his administration, and the Governor-elect for the peaceful and successful governorship polls held on 11 November, 2023.
Attah Igala, who is the chairman of the Kogi State Traditional Council of Chiefs, was represented by the Obaro of Kabba, Oba Solomon Dele Owoniyi.
Oba Solomon Dele recalled the peace accord meeting of the traditional rulers in the state with relevant stakeholders before the election.
He said they advised the stakeholders to be cautious of information on social media, adding that they were assured that the state government and security agencies had implemented mechanisms for a peaceful election.
On the election in Okunland, the Obaro of Kabba stressed that the people were united in acknowledging and rewarding the governor for the positive impact of his administration.
He expressed the confidence that, if they had to do this again, the people of Okunland would not only deliver the entire Okunland but would also widen the margin of lead.
Oba Solomon appealed to Governor Bello to continue in his efforts at strengthening the bond among the people of Kogi State and advocated a united identity as Kogites, rather than being identified based on ethnic divisions.
The traditional ruler commended the achievements of the current administration in fostering peace and unity over the past seven and a half years.
Governor Bello, accompanied by Governor-elect Ahmed Usman Ododo, expressed gratitude to the traditional rulers for their prayers and the pivotal roles they played in ensuring the peaceful conduct of the election.
He commended His Royal Majesty, Williams Keke, the Aguma of Bassa, and His Royal Highness Bukar-Khalid, the Ohiogba of Mozum, for their contributions to the peaceful election and the overwhelming victory for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bassaland.
Governor Bello stressed the need for collaboration among senatorial districts for the overall interest of the state.
The governor emphasised that politics ends after elections, while development and good governance would continue.
He stressed the importance of every part of the state feeling the impact of governance, regardless of political affiliations.
INEC had, on Sunday, declared Ahmed Usman Ododo winner of the November 11 governorship election, having polled the highest number of lawful votes of 446,237 to defeat other candidates.
