Rita Odafe
The Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Usman Ahmed Ododo, has reiterated his strong allegiance to his predecessor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, expressing profound appreciation for Bello’s influence on his political path.
Ododo shared these sentiments on Friday during a press interaction following a courtesy visit to Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), along with members of the National Working Committee (NWC) at the party headquarters in Abuja.
When questioned about any factors that might impact his relationship with Bello, Ododo replied, “Any stream that forgets its source will soon dry up. My mentor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, is like a father figure to me. I didn’t have a privileged start.”
Emotionally charged, the governor emphasized his allegiance to the principles of gratitude and loyalty. “The place from which he (Bello) supported me and how God facilitated my rise remains vivid in my mind. I will always remember my origins,” he stated.
Ododo further remarked, “I will not betray him, nor can I. A child who dares to be angry with his father is no longer truly loyal. I am not that kind of individual.”
Recognizing human faults, the governor requested understanding, urging people to mediate if he ever appears to falter instead of jumping to conclusions about betrayal.
His comments emerged amidst ongoing discussions about continuity and solidarity within the Kogi political landscape.
“If he ever feels displeased with me, as a father figure, I ask you, if you sense my boss is upset, to kindly intervene on my behalf. To me, he remains a leader, and I will never betray him.”
Addressing security concerns, Ododo pointed out that Kogi’s rich mineral resources and fertile land have brought about certain security issues, but assured that his administration has maintained control over the situation.
He explained that despite the state’s geographical challenges due to its proximity to 10 other states, including the Federal Capital Territory, Kogi has become a “no-go area” for criminal elements. He noted that recent attempts from regions like the Northeast and Northwest to infiltrate have been largely unsuccessful in Kogi.
“They come in numbers but leave empty-handed,” Ododo said confidently. “We remain silent and address them effectively.”
Earlier, while engaging with NWC members, the governor reaffirmed his loyalty to the leadership of the party and expressed thanks for their backing during his election campaign.
He committed to upholding the principles and vision of the APC, assuring the National Chairman and the party’s key governing body of his dedication to aligning with the party’s manifesto.
“The trust the party has placed in me drives my determination to serve with integrity and distinction. Our governance approach, which emphasizes youth and women’s involvement, is already producing positive outcomes.”
APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, praised the governor for his achievements, calling him a benchmark for youthful leadership within the party.
“You embody a mix of youth, vigor, and success,” Ganduje remarked. “Your governance reflects the intellectual merits of our party, and we take pride in your efforts in Kogi State.”
The Chairman also highlighted the smooth transition from former governor Yahaya Bello to Ododo, noting that political handovers in Nigeria are often fraught with conflict. He indicated that the party’s research department would evaluate Kogi’s political transition as a model for future strategies.
Ganduje assured that the party would continue to support Kogi in its developmental efforts, commending the amicable relationship between Ododo and his deputy.
