A PRESS STATEMENT DELIVERED BY RT. HON. UMAR AHMED IMAM, FORMER SPEAKER, KOGI STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY AND LEADER APC , LOKOJA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA ON THE ENDORSEMENT OF GOVERNOR AHMED USMAN ODODO TO COMPLETE HIS SECOND TERM AS EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF KOGI STATE, ON SATURDAY 24TH OCTOBER,2026 AT THE NUJ PRESS CENTER, LOKOJA.

Gentlemen of the Press,

You may wish to recall that not too long ago, some critical stakeholders across tribal, sectional, age, gender and political boundaries converged on the GALAXY EVENT CENTER, Lokoja, to discuss inter alia, POWER ROTATION in Kogi State between the 3 Senatorial Districts of Kogi Central, Kogi East and Kogi West. This dialogue followed several agitations that power sharing and distribution should be discussed to allow for smooth, healthy and convivial relationships between the various segments that make up Kogi State.

You may wish to further recall that a lot were discussed at the Summit whereupon the general opinion acceptable to all is that power rotation is a just call which for the interest of peace, equity and fairplay should be undertaken.

Various participating interest groups, tribal unions, political representatives and Local Government Areas took the resolution back home.

Here in Lokoja Local Government, we participated in the entire process of the Summit and came back to review the entire Summit and resolved as follows:

1. That Power Rotation is a healthy and a well accepted consensus which we considered as important.

2. That we, Lokoja Critical Stakeholders, key into the desire for Power Rotation and the attendant benefits to create peace and harmony in Kogi State.

3. That we commend the proponent of the Summit that at no time that it's more important to discuss this matter than now.

4. That following the political trends in Kogi State and Nigeria at large and that in line with constitutional provisions, power rotation should not become a tool to deprive the incumbent Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman ODODO, the right to fulfill his constitutional rights for another term in office.

5. That we observed that Councillors, Local Government Chairmen, State Assembly members, National Assembly members and indeed, Mr. President are all seeking re-election for another term. It will therefore, be curious to now subject the well deserved return of Governor ODODO to an unwarranted debate.

6. That we the Critical Stakeholders in Lokoja do hereby extends our support, solidarity and commitment to the re-election of His Excellency, Governor AHMED USMAN ODODO come November 2027.

7. That we call on all people of means and goodwill throughout Kogi State to join hands with us to achieve this.

8. That his re-election will not only enhance peace that we are all enjoying at present, it will enable him continue and even improve on the developmental strides he has currently embarked upon in Kogi State.

Gentlemen of the Press, Ladies and Gentlemen!

We want to thank you all for listening to us and hope our messages will reach your audience as you have always done.

We also plead that this message is not just an exercise on paper and the news but we, Stakeholders here present, will take the message and work accordingly towards the re-election of Gov. Ahmed Usman ODODO as our Governor in Kogi State come November, 2027.

Thank you and God bless!

AYERE DAY 2026: OMOLUABI BODE ADEYEMI BECOMES ATAYESE OF AYERE, SUPPORTS COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT WITH ₦1.2 MILLION, PROMISES MORE

 

The 2026 Ayere Day celebration has recorded a significant moment in the history of Ayere Kingdom as Hon. Omoluabi Bode Adeyemi was honoured with the prestigious traditional title of Atayese of Ayere Kingdom, in recognition of his contributions, commitment to community development, and dedication to the growth and progress of society.

The colourful ceremony, which attracted traditional rulers, political leaders, community stakeholders, youth groups, and other distinguished personalities, provided an opportunity to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Ayere while recognising individuals whose contributions have continued to make a positive difference in the lives of the people.

Hon. Omoluabi Bode Adeyemi's installation as Atayese of Ayere Kingdom represents a remarkable milestone and a call to greater service, as he continues to demonstrate his commitment to the advancement of communities and the promotion of peace, unity, and development.

Beyond the honour bestowed upon him, Omoluabi demonstrated his commitment to the development of Ayere by supporting community development initiatives with the sum of ₦1.2 million. The gesture reflects his belief that meaningful leadership goes beyond titles and public recognition; it must also be demonstrated through practical contributions that improve people's lives and support the collective aspirations of the community.

His financial support was warmly received as a demonstration of goodwill and a commitment to the continued growth of Ayere. At a time when communities need individuals who are willing to contribute to their development, his intervention underscores the importance of partnership between traditional institutions, community leaders, and well-meaning individuals.

Speaking on his commitment to the community, Omoluabi Bode Adeyemi reaffirmed his determination to do more for Ayere Kingdom, expressing his readiness to continue supporting initiatives that will promote development, strengthen community bonds, and create opportunities for the people.

His promise to do more further highlights his belief in sustained community engagement rather than one-time gestures. It also reflects a broader vision of development in which individuals, traditional institutions, and other stakeholders work together to build stronger, more prosperous, and united communities.

The Ayere Day celebration also served as a reminder of the importance of preserving cultural values, honouring deserving individuals, and encouraging collective responsibility in the pursuit of progress. Traditional festivals such as Ayere Day remain important platforms for promoting unity, celebrating heritage, and mobilising support for community advancement.

Omoluabi Bode Adeyemi emergence as the Atayese of Ayere Kingdom adds a new dimension to his relationship with the community, placing greater significance on his role in supporting its aspirations and contributing to its continued development.

For many, the combination of the traditional honour and his ₦1.2 million contribution sends a strong message about the importance of connecting recognition with responsibility and leadership with service.

As Ayere Kingdom looks towards the future, the expectation is that the renewed commitment demonstrated during the 2026 celebration will inspire further collaboration, development-oriented initiatives, and lasting partnerships for the benefit of the people.

With his promise to do more, Hon. Omoluabi Bode Adeyemi has reaffirmed his willingness to remain part of Ayere's development journey, ensuring that the honour of Atayese is accompanied by continued dedication to the community's progress.

The 2026 Ayere Day celebration will therefore be remembered not only for its cultural significance and the honour bestowed on Omoluabi Bode Adeyemi, but also for his ₦1.2 million contribution and renewed pledge to support the development of Ayere Kingdom.

AYERE DAY: IJUMU YOUTH BOO KOGI WEST SENATOR KARIMI OVER POOR PERFORMANCE, INSISTS HE IS THE WORST SENATOR OF KOGI WEST

 

Senator Sunday Karimi, who represents Kogi West Senatorial District in the National Assembly, reportedly faced a hostile reception at the 2026 Ayere Day celebration, as some youths expressed their displeasure with his representation, unleashing chants of “Karimi Failure” and “Karimi Ole” in a dramatic display of political dissatisfaction.

The incident reportedly occurred when the senator was called upon to address the gathering. What should have been an opportunity to speak to constituents and engage the community allegedly turned into a tense moment, as some youths openly voiced their frustration over what they described as his disappointing performance.

The chants reverberated through the gathering, turning attention away from the cultural significance of Ayere Day and towards the growing controversy surrounding the senator's reception among some attendees.

The reported chants of “Karimi Failure” and “Karimi Ole” became the defining expressions of the incident, reflecting the anger and dissatisfaction displayed by some of the youths present.

Their reaction suggested that they were unhappy with the level of representation they believed Kogi West had received and wanted their grievances heard publicly.

For the youths involved, the occasion provided a platform to express their discontent with a sitting senator whose performance, in their assessment, had fallen short of their expectations.

The incident also raises a fundamental question about political accountability: how should elected representatives respond when constituents publicly express disappointment with their leadership?

The atmosphere reportedly became more volatile when Senator Karimi was invited to speak.

According to the account of the incident, some of his supporters allegedly became involved in a physical confrontation in an apparent attempt to disrupt the event amid the growing tension.

The reported altercation threatened to undermine the peaceful atmosphere of the celebration, raising concerns about the ability of political disagreements to spill over into community gatherings intended to promote unity and cultural pride.

For some of the youths who reportedly protested, the issue was not simply the senator's presence at Ayere Day but their dissatisfaction with his performance as their representative.

Their reaction underscores the importance of constituency engagement, transparent communication, and tangible contributions to the communities elected officials are entrusted to serve.

A senator's performance should ultimately be assessed through verifiable legislative contributions, constituency interventions, development initiatives, and responsiveness to the needs of the people.

Where dissatisfaction exists, the responsibility of leadership is to listen, explain, engage, and demonstrate results not to allow political disagreements to degenerate into confrontation.

Citizens have the right to criticise elected officials peacefully, while politicians and their supporters have a responsibility to respect opposing views and avoid violence.

The reported chants of “Karimi Failure” and “Karimi Ole” have placed the senator's public reception at Ayere Day under the spotlight.

Whether the incident reflects a wider political mood across Kogi West remains to be established. Nevertheless, the reported confrontation highlights the intensity that political disagreements can generate when constituents believe their expectations have not been met.

For Senator Karimi, the most constructive response to such criticism would be to address the concerns raised, present verifiable evidence of his achievements, and engage openly with the people he represents.

The true measure of political leadership is not the reception an elected official receives at a public gathering, but the record of service, accountability, and development that can be demonstrated to the people.

WITH OVER N10BN IN ALLEGED CONSTITUENCY ALLOWANCES AND PROJECTS, KOGI WEST VOTERS DEMAND ACCOUNTABILITY FROM SENATOR KARIMI AMID PERFORMANCE CONCERNS

 

Mounting concerns over constituency representation, public spending and the delivery of democratic dividends are fuelling calls for accountability from Senator Sunday Steve Karimi, who represents Kogi West Senatorial District in the 10th National Assembly.

Across the district, questions are being raised about the scale of constituency-related resources, the visibility of development interventions and the extent to which the senator's legislative representation has translated into tangible benefits for the people.

At the centre of the controversy is a figure of over N10 billion, which concerned constituents and civic voices reportedly associate with constituency projects, allowances and other legislative-related resources since Senator Karimi assumed office in June 2023. However, the figure requires independent verification through official budget documents, financial records and project disclosures.

For constituents demanding answers, the fundamental issue is straightforward: If resources running into billions of naira have been allocated to interventions intended to benefit Kogi West, where are the projects, what has been delivered, and how much has the district gained?

The concerns have reignited debate about the senator's performance and the need for a transparent account of constituency-related interventions across Lokoja, Kogi, Kabba/Bunu, Ijumu, Mopa-Muro, Yagba East and Yagba West.

For many constituents, the value of political representation should be measured by its impact on people's daily lives, not merely by political statements, public appearances or social media announcements.

They expect effective legislative representation, meaningful federal interventions, improved infrastructure, access to economic opportunities and a stronger voice for their communities at the national level.

Consequently, questions about constituency resources have become inseparable from broader concerns about development and accountability.

Residents want to know the specific projects attributed to the senator, the communities where they are located, the amounts committed to them, the contractors or implementing agencies responsible, and whether the projects have been completed to the required standards.

These questions are particularly important in a district where communities continue to look to their elected representatives for support in addressing infrastructure deficits, unemployment, access to essential services and other developmental challenges.

The N10 billion figure, if substantiated, would warrant a detailed public explanation of the relevant allocations, releases, expenditures and project outcomes. If the estimate combines different financial categories or cannot be supported by official records, that distinction must also be made clear.

Either way, transparency is essential to resolving the controversy.

Infrastructure development remains a major consideration in the assessment of political representation across Kogi West.

Road connectivity, potable water, educational facilities, healthcare services and electricity are among the issues that shape the quality of life and economic prospects of communities throughout the district.

In the original complaints circulating among concerned constituents, the condition of the Kabba–Egbe–Ilorin road and the state of some interior roads in Bunu, Ijumu and Yagba were cited as examples of infrastructure challenges requiring attention.

However, the precise condition of these roads, the responsibilities of the relevant federal and state authorities, and any interventions undertaken by the senator would need to be established through independent evidence.

The broader question remains whether the senator has effectively used his legislative position to advocate for the district, facilitate relevant federal interventions and keep constituents informed about the progress of projects affecting their communities.

Where projects have been promised or announced, residents have a legitimate interest in knowing whether implementation has commenced, what has been completed and what remains outstanding.

Public accountability demands more than announcements. It requires verifiable information about delivery.

Youth unemployment and economic hardship remain important concerns in communities across Kogi West.

Young people need opportunities to acquire employable skills, establish businesses, access relevant training and participate meaningfully in economic activities.

Against this background, constituents are seeking greater transparency regarding empowerment initiatives associated with their senator's representation.

They want clear information about the programmes undertaken, the number and identities of beneficiaries where disclosure is appropriate, the criteria used to select recipients, the resources committed and the results achieved.

An empowerment initiative should be assessed by its actual reach and impact, not simply by the publicity surrounding its launch.

If substantial resources have been committed to youth-focused interventions, a properly documented report would help establish whether the programmes have reached the intended beneficiaries and contributed to sustainable economic opportunities.

For young graduates and aspiring entrepreneurs, access to meaningful opportunities is a practical concern that deserves serious attention from every level of government.

Security remains another significant issue requiring sustained attention in Kogi West.

Communities affected by insecurity need effective coordination among security agencies, timely government responses and consistent advocacy by their elected representatives.

Constituents therefore expect their senator to use the platforms available within the National Assembly to raise security concerns, pursue appropriate oversight, advocate for affected communities and support measures aimed at improving public safety.

Any assessment of Senator Karimi's performance in this area should examine his documented legislative interventions, public statements, oversight activities and engagement with relevant authorities.

The essential question is whether the concerns of affected communities are being adequately represented and whether the senator has communicated clearly with constituents about the actions taken on their behalf.

Residents deserve an accessible account of these efforts, including the challenges encountered and the outcomes achieved.

The growing calls for accountability have placed three key demands at the centre of the discussion.

First, a public constituency project register.

Constituents want a comprehensive list of constituency projects associated with the senator from June 2023 to date, including project locations, approved costs, implementing agencies, contractors where applicable, implementation status and evidence of completion.

Such a register would enable communities to identify projects intended for their areas and verify whether the interventions have been delivered.

Second, transparency regarding constituency-related finances.

There are calls for a clear explanation of the allowances, allocations and other financial figures being attributed to the senator's constituency activities.

This should distinguish legislative salaries and allowances from constituency project appropriations, actual releases, expenditure by implementing agencies and completed projects.

A documented financial breakdown would help clarify the basis of the reported N10 billion figure and prevent different categories of expenditure from being improperly combined.

Third, a detailed legislative scorecard.

Constituents are also seeking a comprehensive record of bills sponsored, motions moved, committee assignments, oversight activities and contributions to Senate proceedings on issues affecting Kogi West.

Such a report would provide a more complete basis for evaluating representation beyond constituency projects alone.

Together, these measures would strengthen public understanding of the senator's activities and enable constituents to assess his record using veritable information.

The debate surrounding Senator Karimi's representation highlights a fundamental principle of democratic governance: elected officials are accountable to the citizens whose interests they are entrusted to represent.

Voters have the right to ask questions about public resources, demand information about government-funded projects and evaluate whether elected representatives are fulfilling their responsibilities.

The senator should therefore have an opportunity to explain the projects undertaken, the interventions pursued, the resources involved and the results achieved since assuming office.

Where significant achievements can be demonstrated, the public deserves to know about them. Where projects remain incomplete or questions remain unanswered, the relevant authorities should provide clear explanations.

A transparent account would help distinguish documented performance from political claims and give constituents a clearer understanding of what has been accomplished.

With the 2027 electoral cycle approaching, questions about legislative performance, constituency development and public accountability are likely to remain important subjects of political discussion across Kogi West.

For voters, the assessment of representation should extend beyond political loyalties and campaign rhetoric to include evidence of legislative contributions, the delivery of public interventions and the responsiveness of elected officials to the needs of their constituents.

The coming months provide an opportunity for greater public engagement, constructive scrutiny and the publication of information that can help voters make informed assessments of their representatives.

Rather than relying on competing political narratives, the public debate should be guided by documented facts, transparent financial records and independently verifiable project outcomes.

The controversy over the reported N10 billion in constituency-related allowances and projects associated with Senator Sunday Steve Karimi raises important questions about transparency, representation and the use of public resources.

The central issue is not simply the amount being discussed, but what the available evidence establishes about the funds involved, the interventions undertaken and the benefits delivered to the people of Kogi West.

A comprehensive public report covering constituency projects, relevant financial records, empowerment programmes and legislative activities would provide a meaningful basis for evaluating the senator's stewardship.

Nevertheless, the principle at stake is clear: public resources demand transparency, elected office demands responsibility, and democratic representation requires a willingness to answer legitimate questions.

For the people of Kogi West, accountability is not a political favour. It is an essential part of representative government.

Rep Salman Idris Congratulates Ibrahim, Zacchaeus on Re-election, Commends Ododo for Peaceful LGA Poll.

The member representing Kabba-Bunu/Ijumu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Salman Idris has congratulated the Executive Chairman of Ijumu Local Government, Hon. Haruna Ibrahim and his Kabba-Bunu counterpart, Hon. Zacchaeus Dare Michael on their re-election.

Idris described their victories as a confirmation of the confidence reposed in them by the people and a renewed mandate to sustain good governance and accelerate development across the two local government areas.

In a statement signed by his Senior Legislative Aide, Mubeen Musa, the lawmaker also congratulated the re-elected vice chairmen and councillors across the various wards, commending the party faithful for their contributions to the electoral victories.

He urged party leaders and stakeholders to sustain the energy, unity and mobilisation that secured victory for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the local government elections, stressing the need to replicate the same commitment ahead of the January 16, 2027 elections.

Idris called on party members to work collectively towards securing victory for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other APC candidates in the forthcoming elections.

The federal lawmaker also commended Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo for providing an enabling environment for the peaceful conduct of the local government elections noting that the APC's success in winning all available seats reflected the party's performance at the polls.

He further assured the re-elected chairmen of his commitment to sustained collaboration and synergy with their administrations to promote growth, improve service delivery and advance the development of Kabba-Bunu and Ijumu Federal Constituency.

‎Atiku demands answers from INEC over 2027 ballot printing contracts, key appointments. ‎

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has demanded that the Independently National Electoral Commission, INEC, disclose details of contracts for printing sensitive election materials ahead of the 2027 general elections and explain reported changes in key departments.

‎Mr Atiku also asked the commission to confirm or deny reports that Hitech or companies associated with it had been awarded contracts to print sensitive election materials, warning that secrecy surrounding the process could undermine public confidence in the polls.

‎In a statement issued on Sunday by Phrank Shaibu, Director of Strategic Communication of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, Presidential Campaign Council, Mr Atiku called for the publication of the names of companies engaged by INEC, the procurement methods used and the security arrangements governing the production, storage and delivery of election materials.

‎The former vice-president said reported changes in the commission’s Electoral Operations Department and other key units required urgent clarification.

‎Reports indicate that Isa Magaji Gum, formerly director of Electoral Operations, had been redeployed to the Voter Registry Department, while Oluyemi Titilayo Adeyemi-Showunmi was appointed to head Electoral Operations.

‎Dr Lawrence Bayode was also identified as the head of the Information and Communication Technology department.

‎Mr Atiku said the departments were central to election administration and urged INEC to explain the criteria for the appointments and redeployments.

‎“These departments are at the heart of election administration. INEC must explain these decisions, publish the criteria applied and show that every appointment and redeployment followed due process, was based on merit and was free from political interference. Nigerians will not accept vague assurances on matters this serious,” he said.

‎He, however, cautioned against presuming that any official was compromised because of their ethnicity, background or associations.

‎Mr Atiku said reported political connections or concerns about the concentration of appointments required the commission to provide verifiable assurances that its impartiality would be protected.

‎He also linked the concerns to the economic policies of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, arguing that public dissatisfaction with the government should not be allowed to influence the conduct of the 2027 elections.

‎The former vice-president said the combination of reported changes in sensitive departments and unanswered questions over major contracts could fuel suspicions that the government was seeking an electoral advantage.

‎He urged INEC to dispel such concerns through full and verifiable disclosure.

‎Mr Atiku also demanded clarification over reports that more than half of INEC’s sensitive election materials, including materials relating to the presidential ballot, might have been allocated to a company whose identity and credentials had not been publicly disclosed and which was believed to be based in France.

‎He further expressed concern over reports that the Nigerian Security Printing and Minting Plc (NSPMC) might be responsible for printing election materials for only 15 to 17 states, with private companies handling the remaining assignments.

‎The former vice-president said INEC should publish the names of all companies engaged for the exercise, the materials and states assigned to each, the procurement methods adopted and the security clearances obtained.

‎He also called for details of the safeguards governing the production, storage and delivery of the materials.

‎“These reports demand urgent and unequivocal answers. INEC must confirm or deny them and publish the names of every company engaged, the materials and states assigned to each, the procurement method, the security clearances obtained and the safeguards governing production, storage and delivery,” he said.

‎“Nigerians should not have to depend on unnamed sources to discover who is producing their ballots.”

‎Mr Atiku specifically questioned the possibility of Hitech or a company associated with it handling the printing of sensitive election materials, citing publicly reported business ties between the Chagoury family, which owns Hitech, and the Tinubu family.

‎He argued that any such contract would raise concerns about the neutrality of the electoral commission.

‎“The integrity of INEC in the forthcoming election will be seriously compromised if Hitech or a company associated with it is awarded a contract to produce sensitive election materials,” he said.

‎Mr Atiku added that INEC had a responsibility to disclose the identities of companies awarded the contracts, particularly if the printing was not being handled by the NSPMC.

‎He also cited the controversy surrounding major contracts awarded to Hitech under the Tinubu administration, including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, which the government has defended as having been awarded through a special procurement process.

‎He urged INEC to disclose the value, scope and procurement method of any contract awarded to Hitech or an affiliated company, alongside details of the firm’s capacity and security arrangements.

‎Mr Atiku further called for political parties to be given a meaningful opportunity to scrutinise the process under appropriate safeguards.

‎He said that if neither Hitech nor any company associated with it had been selected, INEC should issue a clear statement to that effect.

‎The former vice-president also urged the commission to maximise the use of qualified domestic security-printing capacity and establish a transparent chain of custody for ballot papers, result sheets and other sensitive election documents.

‎He extended his concerns to the printing of higher-denomination banknotes by foreign companies, saying the practice raised questions about the protection and utilisation of Nigeria’s security-printing capacity.

‎He called on the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to disclose its current printing allocations and explain the roles assigned to the NSPMC and any foreign contractors.

‎Warning against electoral malpractice, Mr Atiku said the 2027 elections must be conducted transparently and that INEC officials would be held accountable for their actions.

‎He said Nigerians facing economic hardship would resist any attempt to undermine their votes through legitimate, peaceful and democratic means.

‎“Let there be no mistake: Nigerians will not accept a stolen election. Any attempt to rig the 2027 polls will be met with determined resistance through the ballot, lawful civic action, and every other democratic channel available to the people,” he said.

‎“INEC officials must understand that the country is watching and that they will be held accountable for their conduct.”

‎Mr Atiku said the ADC would closely monitor preparations for the elections and alert domestic and international observers to any lack of transparency in the handling of sensitive election materials.

‎He insisted that the commission must demonstrate fairness and accountability at every stage of the electoral process rather than rely on assurances.

‎“Nigerians are entitled to demand answers.

Salman Idris Congratulates Kabba-Bunu Chairman on Birthday, Hails Performance.

 

The member representing Kabba-Bunu/Ijumu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Salman Idris has congratulated the Executive Chairman of Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area, Hon. Zacchaeus Dare Michael on the occasion of his birthday.

In a congratulatory statement personally signed by him, Hon. Idris described the council chairman as a forward-thinking leader whose performance in office reflects his commitment to effective grassroots governance and community development.

The federal lawmaker commended Dare for his resilience and determination in delivering on his mandate, noting that he had continued to demonstrate capacity for leadership despite prevailing challenges.

According to him, the chairman's interventions in critical sectors, particularly security, healthcare and infrastructural development have contributed to addressing the needs of residents across the local government area.

Hon. Idris further praised Dare for striking a balance between local government administration and grassroots political engagement, describing him as a man of his word whose commitments are backed by action.

He noted that the chairman's approach to governance demonstrates the importance of purposeful leadership, accountability and responsiveness to the needs of the people.

The federal lawmaker prayed to Almighty God to grant Dare good health, long life and renewed strength to continue serving humanity, expressing hope that he would be entrusted with greater responsibilities in the future.

He wished the council chairman a fulfilling birthday celebration and many more years of impactful service to the people of Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area and beyond.

‎Kogi Councilor Dies After Days in Captivity ‎

 

‎The councillor representing Ogugu Ward III in Olamaboro Local Government Area of Kogi State, Rosemary Aduku, has reportedly died after spending days in captivity.

‎Her death was announced in a statement by the Chairman of Olamaboro Local Government Area, Dr Ameh Williams, on behalf of the Olamaboro Executive Council, on Friday.

‎Williams was however silent on the type of captivity she was being held until her death

‎In the death and burial announcement, Williams described the late councillor, popularly known as Hon. Rosella among her colleagues, as a wonderful, humble and reliable person who was committed to making people around her happy.

‎The statement read, “It is with deep sorrow we announce the sudden demise of our dear sister and colleague Hon. Mrs Rosemary Aduku, the Honorable Councilor representing the good people of Ogugu Ward 3 in the 8 Olamaboro Legislative Council.

‎"Hon. Rosella as she is profoundly called among her colleagues in the council and members of the Olamaboro Executive Council has been a wonderful soul and down to earth.

‎"She has been a reliable fellow whose idea is to make everyone around her happy. Though your life was short lived but we will definitely take solace in your legacies and testimonies we have received since your demise.

‎The statement read, “It is with deep sorrow we announce the sudden demise of our dear sister and colleague Hon. Mrs Rosemary Aduku, the Honorable Councilor representing the good people of Ogugu Ward 3 in the 8 Olamaboro Legislative Council.

‎“At this point we pray that God Almighty continue to rest your soul, grant your entire family, members of the Olamaboro 8 Legislative Council, members of Olamaboro Executive Council and the entire Ogugu district the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.

‎“Adieu Hon. Mrs Rosemary Aduku. Burial is scheduled for 1pm prompt this afternoon at her family compound, Ogugu centre.

‎“We use this medium to invite All APC family to be part of the burial as we bid our sister a final farewell

‎

Abejide Pledges N500m Youth Empowerment, Backs Tinubu, Ododo for 2027.

 

The member representing Yagba Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Elder Leke Abejide, has pledged N500 million for a youth empowerment programme to help young people across the constituency establish and expand small-scale businesses.

Abejide made the commitment at his homecoming ceremony held at the Itodo Open Field in Yagba East Local Government Area of Kogi State, where he said the programme would cover youths across the 74 communities that make up the federal constituency.

He explained that the initiative was designed to provide young people with the resources and opportunities needed to become self-reliant, create jobs and contribute to the economic development of their communities.

The lawmaker also declared his support for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election and the second-term bid of Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo.

Abejide said his decision to support both leaders was informed by his conviction that their respective administrations were committed to policies and programmes that could advance development and improve the welfare of Nigerians and Kogites.

Earlier, the Secretary to the Kogi State Government, Dr. Folashade Arike Ayoade, welcomed Abejide to the homecoming and commended him for his sustained interventions in the constituency, particularly his support for widows and students.

Ayoade described the lawmaker's interventions as evidence of his commitment to improving the welfare of vulnerable members of the constituency while also supporting the educational aspirations of young people.

Also speaking, the Chairman of Yagba West Local Government Area and Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Kogi State Chapter, Hon. Tosin Olokun, assured Abejide of the support of the people for President Tinubu and the lawmaker ahead of the 2027 elections.

Olokun said the people had witnessed the impact of the APC-led administration and would continue to support leaders whose programmes and policies were geared towards development, economic growth and good governance.

Speaking with journalists at the event, Hon. Emmanuel Obaro urged youths in the constituency to unite and actively participate in the political process, describing the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the “winning team” ahead of the 2027 elections.

He called on the youths to support candidates who, according to him, had demonstrated commitment to their development and the overall progress of the constituency and the state.

The homecoming ceremony attracted political leaders, APC stakeholders, traditional rulers, youths, women, and other supporters from across the Yagba Federal Constituency.

Ododo Reconciles Kabba APC Stakeholders, Unites Party Ahead of 2027 Elections

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has brokered peace among APC stakeholders in the Kabba axis, urging party leaders and members to put aside their differences, embrace unity and work collectively towards the party’s success in the 2027 elections.

Speaking with stakeholders, Ododo reaffirmed his commitment to the development of Kabba and the wider Owe community, stressing that internal disagreements must not be allowed to weaken the party at the grassroots.

The Governor particularly emphasised the importance of the APC State House of Assembly candidates, declaring: “The APC candidates for the Assembly seats are my candidates and I prioritise them. All hands must be on deck to deliver them. The victory of the APC is not negotiable.”

He called on party leaders, stakeholders and supporters to give the candidates their full support, while stressing that electoral victory should translate into stronger government-community relations and more development for the people.

Ododo’s intervention is part of his broader reconciliation efforts within the Kogi APC. In September, he inaugurated a 17-member Peace and Conflict Resolution Committee, chaired by former Governor Idris Wada, to reconcile aggrieved members, resolve internal disputes and strengthen party unity ahead of 2027.

The Governor’s engagement with Kabba APC stakeholders is expected to further strengthen unity within the party and enhance its grassroots mobilisation ahead of the forthcoming elections.