Over 600 defect to APC at Kogi deputy governor’s reception

In a significant show of political solidarity, over 600 individuals have pledged their allegiance to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) at a grand reception held in Ejule for Kogi State Deputy Governor, Joel Salifu. The event, hosted by the Ofu Local Government Traditional Council, not only celebrated the deputy governor but also marked a substantial boost for the APC in the region, as defectors from the Peoples Democratic Party, Social Democratic Party, and other political platforms joined the ruling party.

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Today is a very special day for me. Standing here before my people, I feel deeply honoured, happy and grateful for this reception organised by the Ofu Traditional Council and sons and daughters of the local government, both at home and in the diaspora.

The Eje Ofu, HRH Akwu Obaje, lauded Deputy Governor Salifu for his unwavering loyalty, humility, and effective representation of the Ofu people. The monarch's commendation extended to Governor Ahmed Ododo for entrusting Salifu with his role and for his administration's respect for traditional institutions. The traditional council pledged its continued support for the governor's administration, emphasizing the importance of peace, unity, and development. The youths were urged to embrace education and hard work, while the council appealed for increased government intervention in critical sectors such as roads, healthcare, security, and rural development for the predominantly farming and trading community.

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I assure my people of continued humility, loyalty and commitment to service because leadership is about service to the people, and that is what this administration stands for.

Deputy Governor Salifu expressed his profound gratitude for the honor, describing the reception as a deeply moving moment. He reaffirmed his commitment to serving the people with humility and loyalty, echoing the administration's ethos of leadership as service. Salifu highlighted the ongoing developmental strides of the Ododo administration, including road projects, transformer provisions, school renovations, and improved access to clean water in Ofu. He also issued a stern warning against criminal activities like kidnapping and cultism, assuring the community of the administration's resolve to combat crime.

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Youths should shun kidnapping, cultism and other crimes, warning that the Ododo administration was serious about fighting criminality.

This event, as reported by The Punch, signifies a strong endorsement of the current administration within the Ofu Local Government area. The mass defection underscores the APC's growing influence and the deputy governor's effective connection with his constituents. The emphasis on traditional institutions, youth engagement, and the promise of development reflects a holistic approach to governance that resonates with the local populace. The commitment to peace and security, coupled with developmental initiatives, positions the APC for continued success in the region.

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The gathering was organised to celebrate “our own son” and acknowledge his loyalty, humility and representation of the Ofu people in government.