Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has described the local government election in the state as peaceful and orderly, attributing the improved security situation in the electoral process to the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The Governor stated this on Saturday after casting his vote at his polling unit in Upogoro/Odenku Ward in Okene Local Government area, where he expressed satisfaction with the conduct of the election.
Ododo said local government elections in the past were often marred by violence and destruction, expressing gratitude to the President for supporting efforts to strengthen security and protect residents.
“In the past, local government election used to be bloody. But we thank Mr. President for giving us that confidence, for supporting us to provide security for our people,” the Governor said.
He described the atmosphere during the exercise as a welcome departure from the past, noting that voters were able to participate without the fear that previously characterised some elections.
“You can see, very peaceful, very, very orderly, very transparent, very fair,” he said.
Ododo further said his administration welcomed political opposition but challenged parties to demonstrate their contributions to the development of the people.
“We are not saying opposition should not come. But come and tell us what you have done for our people when you were there. Come and tell us the platform
that you want to use to serve your people,” he said.
The Governor said he was pleased with the process after casting his ballot, while reiterating his appreciation to President Tinubu for the support he said had helped improve security in Kogi State.
The Governor also disclosed that security clearance operations has been ongoing across the state in the past three days, stressing that security remained essential to public confidence, freedom of movement and the successful conduct of elections.
Voters in the community expressed joy over the peaceful conduct of the election as they cast their votes for the candidates of their choice in the local government election across the state.
