Alamuro Congratulates Gov. Ododo on Supreme Court Victory, Urges Him to Sustain Right Path

 

The Alamuro of Amuro, HRM, Oba (Engr.) Alfred Modupẹ Aiyedogbon (JP), has congratulated Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, and his Deputy, Joel Salifu, on Supreme Court Victory as the duly elected Executive Governor of Kogi State. 

In a unanimous judgement on Friday in Abuja, the Supreme Court of Nigeria, affirmed Governor Usman Ahmed Ododo as the duly elected Governor of Kogi State.

The Apex court affirmed Ododo's victory at the November 11, 2023 gubernatorial election in the state. 

The Alamuro in a statement made available to journalists on Sunday in Effo Amuro, described judgment as a remarkable and well-deserved victory. 

"The entire Amuro Kingdom is thrilled to extend her heartfelt congratulations to you on your remarkable and well-deserved victory as declared by the esteemed Supreme Court of Nigeria. 

"This momentous ruling is a triumph for democracy and the will of the Good People of Kogi State.

“The people of the state have placed their trust in you, and we have no doubt that you will work tirelessly to fulfil the aspirations and dreams of the citizenry. 

"Your passion for public service, your vision for progress, and your unwavering dedication to the welfare of the people will undoubtedly guide you in the path ahead," he said

The royal father urged the Governor to develop a robust partnership with the Federal government in the interest of the people of Kogi State.

The monarch added: "Now that you have been finally affirmed as our Governor, I beseech you to develop a robust partnership with the Federal government in the interest of our people. 

"We have full confidence that you will be magnanimous in victory and also, lead with integrity, wisdom, and compassion. 

"Your tenure is an opportunity to bring about positive change, uplift communities, and foster an environment of inclusivity, progress, and development which we have no doubt that you will succeed in.

"Congratulations, Your Excellency."

Oba Alfred Modupẹ Aiyedogbon (JP)

Alamuro of Amuro.

End

Mrs Tinubu donates 50,000 notebooks to pupils in Kogi

 

The Wife of Nigeria's President, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, has donated 50,000 notebooks to public Primary schools in Kogi State under her "Renewed Hope Initiative" project.

The distribution of the note books was flagged off by the wife of Kogi Governor, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, on Thursday at Glass House, Government House Lokoja.

In her remarks, Hajia Ododo appreciated the President's wife for her commitment to education development and empowerment of children in public schools across the country.

She commended Mrs Tinubu for her visionary leadership and passion to ensuring quality education for all, stressing that the initiative remained an inspiration worthy of emulation.

The Kogi governor's wife promised to continue to emulate and support the Nigeria's first lady for a better output, noting that the notebooks were being distributed across the 36 States of the federation.

Mrs Ododo urged the people of Kogi to continue to support her husband to take Kogi to greater heights.

She reaffirmed the governor's commitment to continue to bridging the gaps in ensuring quality education in the state.

She advised the pupils to take their studies seriously while urging the stakeholders to ensure equitable distribution of the notebooks across public primary schools in the state.

Also speaking, the state's Commissioner for Education, Mr Wemi Jones, commended the wife of the President for the gesture towards the development of education in Kogi State.

Jones emphasised that education palliative remained the most sustainable assistance to the people, stressing that Gov. Ododo's administration would not compromise the educational needs of Kogi children.

"We are indeed very grateful to the wife of the President for the gesture because palliative in education is the most sustainable palliative that you can give because education is the bedrock of any development," he said

Jones stressed that the former Governor, Alh Yahaya Bello, handed over to Ododo who had been trained and groomed to take education to another higher level in Kogi State. 

The Commissioner assured that the necessary structure had been put in place to ensure that the notebooks get to the targeted beneficiaries.

Jones reaffirmed the commitment of Ododo's administration to ensure that education remained free at basic and secondary levels in public schools across the state.

"Education is free in Kogi. We are paying for all exams; both internal and external examinations at basic and secondary school levels in the state.

"As a ministry, we are irreversibly committed to taking education to higher level in Kogi because we have a governor that is fully ready and committed to education development," Jones said.

On her part, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Fatima Momoh appreciated the Mrs Tinubu's efforts in improving education standards in the country.

Speaking on behalf of the Education Secretaeies in the state, the Chairman Forum of Education Secretaries, Mall. Salihu Usman, appreciated the initiative and promised to ensure the distribution with fairness.

The highlight of the occasion was the flagg off of the notebooks' distribution by Kogi first lady, who subsequently handed them over to the commissioner for education for onward distribution to pupils across the state.

By Stephen Adeleye 

Kogi First Lady restates commitment to championing menstrual hygiene management promotion

 

The Kogi State First Lady, Her Excellency, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, has reaffirmed her resounding commitment to championing the cause of menstrual hygiene and promoting a #PeriodFriendlyWorld for the women and girls of Kogi State. 

Hajia Ododo gave the assurance in Lokoja as part of activities to mark the 2024 Menstrual Hygiene Day commemoration organised by Heal for Africa Initiative (HFAI), tagged:"#PeriodFriendlyWorld".

May 28, 2024 marks the celebration of the 10th edition of World Menstrual Hygiene Day, a global initiative dedicated to promoting awareness and education about menstrual hygiene. 

Whille commending the Founder of HFAI, Dr Kelechi Okoro for the NGOs activities in Kogi State, the Kogi first lady pledged her unwavering support for the initiative and outlined her plans to improve menstrual hygiene and other sexual and reproductive health initiatives in the state.

She emphasized the importance of breaking the silence and stigma surrounding menstruation.

"Menstruation should never be a barrier to education, health, or personal growth. As a mother and a leader, I am committed to ensuring that every girl and woman in Kogi State can manage their menstruation with dignity and confidence," she said.

Her Excellency also admonished parents to prioritize menstrual hygiene education for their daughters. 

"Parents play a crucial role in their children's development. It is essential to provide your girl child with accurate information and support about menstruation. 

"This helps them understand their bodies and manage their menstrual health effectively. Let us create an open and supportive environment where our daughters feel comfortable discussing their menstrual needs," she said.

Hajia Ododo further encouraged the young girls to know that menstruation remained a natural part of growing up.

She advised "To every young girl, know that menstruation is a natural part of growing up. Do not let it hold you back from pursuing your dreams. 

"Educate yourself, take care of your health, and seek support when needed. My office is committed to advancing the health and rights of the girl child."

Also speaking, Dr Folasade Ayoade Arike, the Secretary to the Kogi State Government (SSG), reiterated Her Excellency’s call on other female leaders to support the initiative.

She also urged government officials and stakeholders to join the movement for menstrual hygiene sensitization, especially in schools and underserved communities.

"We must work together to ensure that all girls have access to menstrual hygiene products, education, and facilities. 

"Our collective efforts can break down barriers and create a world where menstruation is not a hindrance but a celebrated aspect of life.” 

She implored other women leaders to take concrete steps to build a #PeriodFriendlyWorld.

The Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hajia Fatima Momoh, made a commitment to champion the sexual and reproductive health of women and girls in Kogi State. She emphasized that the focus on women's and girls' health must extend beyond the Menstrual Hygiene Day commemoration.

"This is not just about today; it is about ensuring a brighter, healthier future for our girls. The Ministry of Women Affairs will provide the necessary support to promote the #PayAttentionToHer project."

 I urge everyone to join us in this vital cause," she concluded.

By Stephen Adeleye

Ebira Doctors congratulate Gov. Ododo, Dep. Salifu on Tribunal victory

The Ebira Doctors' Forum (EDF) has congratulated His Excellency, Alh. Ahmed Usman Ododo and his Deputy Hon.Joel Oyibo Salifu, on their victory at the Governorship Election Petition Tribunal 

The Kogi State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal on Monday affirmed Ahmed Usman Ododo of the APC as the duly elected governor of Kogi State.

The EDF congratulated the governor and his deputy in a statement jointly issued by its President, Dr Zubair Kabiru; and Secretary, Dr Shaibu Moses on Tuesday in Lokoja.

"The Ebira Doctor's Forum (EDF) extends heartfelt congratulations to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo and Deputy Governor, Comrade Joel Oyibo on your recent tribunal victory. 

"This verdict reaffirms that your victory reflects the true mandate of the people. Your triumph serves as a testament to the effective governance you have demonstrated since assuming office.

"We are particularly encouraged by your recent initiatives in the health sector. 

"The launch of new hospital equipment and consumables marks a significant step forward, promising substantial benefits for the people of Kogi State. 

"This progress underscores your commitment to improving healthcare and addressing the needs of our communities," the forum stated.

The EDF expressed their commitment to continue to collaborate and support Ododo administration’s efforts to enhancing the well-being of all residents of the state.

End

WHY ODODO/OGBO TICKET IS THE SURE BET FOR KOGI AGENDA

 

  ...X-raying the electoral strength of Kogi Eastern Senatorial District and the possible expectations

There is no gainsaying that the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kogi State has commenced process of scouting for the running mate for its Party Flag bearer, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo.

If APC must win from an unbiased analysis, Alhaji Usman Ododo has to pick a running mate from Kogi Eastern Senatorial district.

This is premised on the combination of votes that will emanate from both Kogi East and Central Senatorial districts of the state.

While the Eastern Senatorial District is expected to be given consideration because of its large number of registered voters, especially in Ankpa, Omala, and Olamaboro Federal Constituency, and Dekina/Bassa Federal Constituency, the APC need to recommend a capable personality, a thoroughbred leader with striking credentials to fly its ticket with the flag bearer.

First, Dekina/Bassa Federal Constituency, no doubt, has large registered voters. However, the same federal Constituency is known to have a scattered voting pattern due to its counterpart local Government (Bassa Local Government), as reflected in the last general elections.
As such, any personality from that axis may not be an easy ride for the success of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the Gubernatorial election.

Secondly, Idah, Igala-Mela, Ofu, and Ibaji Federal Constituency has almost three (3) gubernatorial candidates for the November Gubernatorial Poll, an obvious indication that the APC will be expecting divided votes from among the candidates.

This of course will affect APC's outing at the Gubernatorial Poll even as we have Kogi East APC chairman from the same axis.

On records, Idah, Igala-Mela, Ofu, and Ibaji Federal axis has had scattered pattern of votes since 1999.
In Ibaji for example, majority of voters often vote in 2 directions: Anti-government votes and Pro-religion votes.

This is mainly because Ibaji people are perceived as outcasts in Igala land possibly because of the tongue difference (which is largely influenced by Igbo and Christianity) and the main Igala (which is often influenced by common ancestry).

More so, Ankpa, Omala, and Olamaboro Federal Constituency is known to be a bloc vote centre overtime. Specifically, Ankpa Local Government Area came second in the last general elections ahead of Dekina Local Government Area despite the number of registered voters in Dekina Local Government Area.

It's on record that Dekina has not always been up to its potential because of the following reason:

It is often the center of the ruling party in Kogi East and It is also often the center of the opposition in Kogi State. This are varifiable pieces of information.

From this analysis, there is no doubt that Dr. Salisu Ogbo Usman will fit in as Ododo's running mate to Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo because of his detribalised nature.

The Doctor of Political Economy has demonstrated and still demonstrating his unbiased way of life when it comes to religious or ethnic difference as obviously portrayed by having his ADC a Christian, Personal Assistant, official Videographer/ photographer, Public Relations Unit officer a Christian, his immediate allies and virtually all the establishment headed by Christains in Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja.

Dr. Usman is the only man whose name rings bell, positively in Kogi West and Central Senatorial Districts and I can assure you that this combo of Hon Ahmed Usman Ododo and Dr. Salisu Ogbo Usman will win Election seamlessly and convincingly if put together by securing two–third Majority votes across the three senatorial districts, thus exposing and replacing incompetence with competency, capacity and commitments.

It will further ignite the wave of public reorientation and sensitization on the true essence of the representative (and the nature of responsibility that ought to accompany it) and the many public benefits and entitlements that ought to be trickling down from such representative offices as dividends of democracy.

It will also succeed in raising the bar of representation and triggering the spirit of public advocacy for transparency and accountability.

I'm sure the leadership of the party is considering this combination, and if not, now is the time to give it a deep-thought.

Kogi State will be great again devoid of ethnic and religious SENTIMENTS.

- Abdulkadir Bin ABDULMALIK is a seasoned political/ Policy analyst, member All Progressive Congress (APC) and writes from Lokoja, Kogi State 

GYB is perfect fit as Buhari’s worthy successor- Ododo

 

President Muhammadu Buhari’s assertion that the next president of Nigeria should be someone who can secure the country is an endorsement of the aspiration of Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi state to become the next president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. 

Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, staunch supporter of the GYB2PYB agenda stated this in Lokoja the Kogi state capital at the weekend.

Alhaji Ododo while referring to the statement by President Buhari who spoke during a working visit to Maiduguri the Borno State capital, noted that the monumental achievement of the Kogi state government under Alhaji Yahaya Bello in securing lives and property in the state is a clear demonstration of the mastery of both kinetic and non-kinetic instruments of national security by Governor Yahaya Bello.

Alhaji Ododo who described Governor Yahaya Bello as the best person for the job noted that it is only natural that GYB would replicate the same string of successes recorded in the provision of infrastructure and security in all parts of Kogi state  at the national level when elected the President of Nigeria in 2023. 

 

While commending President Buhari for the renewed efforts in the military offensive against bandits and insurgents across the country, he called on Nigerians to support the presidential aspiration of Governor Yahaya Bello whom he noted is the only man ready to throw his hat in the ring to address current security challenges and infrastructural development in the country.

This he noted has been demonstrated through several projects like the construction of Ganaja flyover, Okene Reference Hospital and other health institutions across the state as well road networks in the nooks and crannies of the state and security interventions by Governor Yahaya Bello, one of which is the recent arrest of all 25 armed robbery suspects who attacked a bank in Egbe, Yagba West Local Government Area of the state. 

Alhaji Ododo who expressed delight over the position of President Buhari on the expectation of his successor urged Nigerians to vote for a presidential aspirant who has demonstrated unimpeachable capacity to secure Nigeria in view of the strategic importance of security in national development.

He urged Nigerian youths to take up the challenge of securing the country by working for the realization of the presidential ambition of Governor Yahaya Bello come 2023.