Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has urged the people of Igalamela/Odolu Local Government Area to remain united and resist attempts by politicians to create division ahead of future elections.
Governor Ododo made the call during an interactive meeting with stakeholders, traditional rulers, youth and women groups from the area at the Government House in Lokoja.
The Governor said political leadership must be anchored on service to the people rather than personal ambition, stressing that unity remains essential for development.
“We are not fighting for personal interests; we are fighting for the interests of the people,” he said, urging residents to close ranks and work together for the advancement of Kogi State.
Governor Ododo commended President Bola Tinubu for appointing sons and daughters of Kogi State into key federal positions, describing the gesture as proof of the administration’s inclusiveness and confidence in the state.
He said the people should reciprocate the goodwill by sustaining their support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Tinubu administration.
“The APC remains the only party that has truly given this state the recognition it deserves,” the Governor stated, adding that support for the current administration would continue to attract greater opportunities for the state.
He also warned against political manipulation and disunity, noting that division among the people could undermine development efforts and weaken the collective interest of the area.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, the special adviser to the Governor on drug abuse and illicit trafficking, Eunice Achimugu, thanked the Governor for engaging with the people and praised his leadership style, which she said has continued to inspire confidence among youths and women in the local government area.
Chairman of Igalamela/Odolu Local Government Area, Cosmos Atabo, also commended Governor Ododo for his commitment to continuity in governance, workers’ welfare, and people-oriented policies, assuring him of the people’s continued support.
In separate remarks, political leaders including Friday Sani Makama, Baron Okwoli, and the Etemahi of Igalamela, HRH Abel Etu, commended the Governor for appointing indigenes of the area into strategic government positions.
The leaders reaffirmed their support for Governor Ododo and President Tinubu, while appealing to the state government to prioritise the construction of Nsukka–Odolu–Idah road, which they described as critical enabler of economic and social activities in the area.
