By Abah Benjamin Eneojoh
Upogoro, Okene | October 17, 2026
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s security support after casting his vote in Saturday’s local government council elections, describing the atmosphere at the polls as peaceful and celebratory.
Speaking after voting at his polling unit in Upogoro, Okene, Ododo said improved security had given residents the confidence to participate in the exercise without fear.
He contrasted the atmosphere with the violence he said had accompanied local government elections in the past.
“In the past, Local Government elections used to be bloody. But we thank Mr President for giving us that confidence and supporting us to provide security for our people. You can see that Local Government elections are now just like a carnival,” the governor said.
Ododo Links Voter Confidence to Security
The governor said protecting lives and property remained central to democratic participation, noting that citizens needed a secure environment to exercise their voting rights.
He attributed the prevailing atmosphere to ongoing security efforts and cooperation between the state and Federal Government.
Ododo urged Nigerians to recognise the resources and sacrifices involved in maintaining security, saying the benefits extended beyond elections to businesses, travel and everyday community life.
Security operations have remained a major focus in Kogi, including the interception of an arms cache and the rescue of kidnapped victims following a gun battle in Itobe.
Governor Challenges Opposition on Public Service
He acknowledged the importance of opposition in a democracy but urged political parties to engage constructively and demonstrate their commitment to public service.
The governor challenged opposition parties to present their records and explain their contributions to the development of Kogi and the welfare of its residents.
He also expressed confidence in the All Progressives Congress, crediting its leadership and President Tinubu with supporting the state’s security and development priorities.
His remarks come amid wider political mobilisation in Kogi, including efforts by Senator Isah Jibrin to rally Kogi East supporters for the APC and Vice Admiral Usman Jibrin’s appeal for voters to collect their PVCs.
Appeal for Peace Throughout the Process
Ododo said he left the electoral process to election officials after casting his ballot and urged residents and political stakeholders to cooperate in sustaining peace throughout the exercise.
He maintained that his administration would remain focused on governance, public safety and residents’ welfare rather than social media controversies.
The council elections take place against the backdrop of broader debates about grassroots administration, including a court case concerning the tenure of Kogi local government officials.
The governor reiterated his appreciation for federal support and called for continued cooperation to strengthen security and democratic participation across the state.
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