Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has presented certificates of return to Kogi Governor-elect, Usman Ododo and his Deputy, Joel Salifu.
The All Progressive Congress (APCs) Ododo and Salifu won the November 1, 2023, off-cycle Governorship Election in Kogi with 446,237 votes.
They defeated their closest rivals, Murtala Ajaka and Sam Ranti-Abenemi of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) that polled 259,052 votes.
The certificates of return were presented to the duo by the National Electoral Commissioner for Kwara, Niger and Kogi, Mr Sani Adam (SAN) at the INEC headquarters in Lokoja, the state capital on Friday.
Adam congratulated the winners for emerging victoriously at the just concluded governorship election.
The Kogi State Resident Electoral Commissioner for INEC, Gabriel Longpet stated that the presentation was part of the commission’s mandate, as the winners met the constitutional requirements.
Speaking shortly after receiving his certificate, Ododo promised the people of Kogi that he would fulfill his campaign promises and build on the sterling achievements of Governor Yahaya Bello.
The governor-elect appreciated the people of the state for their overwhelming support during the election.
Ododo hinted that he enjoyed sheer consolidation on the strength and unity of Kogi.
“My victory at last Saturday’s election is a victory for all. We will run an all- inclusive administration where everyone irrespective of tribe, religion and political affiliation will be carried along.
“My administration will be committed to sustaining the youth, as well as focus more on women empowerment programmes of the present administration.
“My resolve to provide employment for our teeming youths and ensure that education occupies the front burner of our administration remains unchanged, ” he added.
The governor-elect promised to justify the confidence reposed in him.
Bello, who was present during the presentation, enjoined the people of the state to join hands with Ododo in building a greater Kogi State.
”The election has come and gone and a winner has emerged. I call on the people of the State to work towards the unity and togetherness our administration has achieved,” he said.
News Flash