About four years ago, Governor Yahaya Bello and his Deputy Edward Onoja received their certificates of return to herald the beginning of the second term of his New Direction administration.
As the term in office winds down after the election of Alh. Ahmed Usman Ododo as the Governor-elect of the state, the new direction era is drawing its curtain as Governor Bello said, “an era begins, and then an era ends” at the presentation of certificate of return to Ododo on Friday at the INEC office in Lokoja.
“To God Almighty, four years ago, myself and my wonderful Deputy Governor were here receiving our certificates of return like this. Today, to the glory of God, we are witnessing another certificates of return being given to our successors that we put our heart into the ring for; to the glory of God, the good people of Kogi State elected freely, fairly in an exercise that was so free of rancour,” Bello said.
He said the election reflected the true wishes of the citizens of the state.
While appreciating INEC and the security agencies for their roles in ensuring a smooth process, he thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima for giving him opportunity to showcase his capacity.
Governor Bello reminded the contenders there was bound to be winners and losers in every democratic process, urging them to commit to the development of the State.
He urged them to learn lessons from the process, rather than antagonize.
“Let’s not dissipate extra energy and put our people in harm’s way or misinforming them. This decision is resounding, and I am calling on you to come and join Ahmed Usman Ododo in the journey ahead, so that we can make our state a better state envious to all others to come and emulate,” he stated.
Bello further emphasized his commitment to the security of the state before he hands over to his successor.
“We are assuring you that after this election, still before I handover, in collaboration with with all the security agencies, we will ensure peace and tranquility within and outside the state.”
