The monarchs in Kogi State have lauded the Independent National Electoral Commission, security agencies and other stakeholders for the conduct of peaceful and credible governorship election last Saturday, November 11.
The traditional rulers expressed their commendation when they paid a congratulatory visit to Sate Governor, Yahaya Bello at his GRA residence, in Okene, on Tuesday.
The traditional institution also felicitated the Governor-elect, Usman Ododo, asserting their commitment to collaborating with the Kogi State Government in order to boost the unity and development achieved under the current administration.
The Atta Igala and
President of the Kogi State Traditional Council of Chiefs, His Royal Majesty, Mathew Alaji Opaluwa Ogwuche-Akpa and the Atta Igala explained that the visit was to rejoiced with the Governor, his administration and Ododo for the peaceful and successful governorship polls.
Represented by Obaro of Kabba, Oba Solomon Dele Owoniyi, the monarch cited their peace accord meeting with relevant stakeholders before the election, where they were advised to be cautious of information on social media, and where they were assured that the government and security agencies had implemented mechanisms for a peaceful election.
Speaking on the election in Okunland, Oba Solomon pointed out that the people were united in acknowledging and rewarding the governor for the positive impact of his administration.
He assured 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 urged Governor Bello to continue in his efforts at bolstering the bond among the people of the state, calling for a united identity as Kogites rather than being identified based on ethnic divisions.
He praised the achievements of the current administration in strengthening peace and unity over the past seven and a half years.
Bello, accompanied by Governor-elect Ododo, thanked the monarchs for their prayers and the crucial roles they played in ensuring the peaceful conduct of the November 11 election.
He hailed His Royal Majesty, Williams Keke, the Aguma of Bassa, and His Royal Highness Bukar-Khalid, the Ohiogba of Mozum, for their immense contributions to the peaceful election and the remarkable victory for the APC in Bassa land.
Bello identified the need for partnership among senatorial districts for the overall interest of the state, stressing that politics ends after elections, while development and good governance would continue.
He stated the significance of every part of the state feeling the impact of governance, regardless of political affiliations.
INEC, on Sunday declared Ododo winner of the November 11 governorship election, having polled the highest number of lawful votes of 446,237 to defeat other candidates.
