By Hassan Hussain
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has commended the defection of former Labour Party House of Assembly candidate for Olamaboro Constituency, Honourable Abdulmalik Sani Gabaidu, to the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing his grassroots activities as a confidence booster that has increased youth involvement in the constituency.
Governor Ododo made the remarks during a reception organised in honour of the former lawmaker candidate and his supporters, where he praised Honourable Gabaidu’s leadership qualities and dedication to the welfare of his people.
The Governor said his assessment of the new APC member revealed a leader who places the collective interest of his constituents above personal ambition.
“I have checked him, I have tried him, I have evaluated him, and I discovered that we share the same attributes. When I offered him an appointment, he declined to collect the letter until I met with his people. That singular act showed me that he values the interest of his community above personal gain,” Governor Ododo said.
Governor Ododo assured Honourable Gabaidu and the people of Ankpa Federal Constituency of his administration’s readiness to work with all political leaders to accelerate development across the area.
He stressed that the APC would continue to celebrate individuals of proven integrity, noting that a good reputation remains one of the greatest assets any leader can possess.
“You may not have money, but you have a good name. What you have demonstrated today is a legacy that your children and generations yet unborn will be proud of,” he stated.
On security challenges in Ankpa, Omala and Olamaboro Local Government Areas, Governor Ododo attributed the situation largely to criminal activities linked to the rich coal deposits in the area.
He reaffirmed his administration’s determination to restore lasting peace and ensure that the state’s natural resources benefit host communities.
“The recent insecurity is not because we do not know how to fight crime. Criminals are attracted by our rich coal deposits, but with genuine cooperation among our leaders, we will flush them out of our land,” the Governor assured.
Governor Ododo called on political leaders and stakeholders across Kogi State to unite in the overall interest of the people, describing leadership as a call to selfless service.
He also congratulated the APC Kogi East Senatorial candidate, Chief Joseph Erico, on his emergence, describing him as a courageous leader who has remained committed to the fight against criminality despite intimidation.
The Governor urged residents to continue supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress, expressing confidence that greater unity within the party would translate into improved security and accelerated development across Kogi State.
Responding, Honourable Abdulmalik Sani Gabaidu thanked Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for the warm reception accorded to him and members of his team following their defection to the APC.
He pledged his unwavering loyalty to the party and promised to mobilise support for the APC ahead of the 2027 general elections.
