Usman Ododo has officially assumed office as the governor of Kogi State, following his inauguration ceremony held in Lokoja on Saturday.
Ododo, who won the November 11, 2023, gubernatorial election, took the oath of office at approximately 2:24 pm, marking the beginning of his tenure as the 5th Executive Governor of Kogi State.
The swearing-in ceremony also saw Salifu Joel Oyibo taking his oath of office as the deputy governor of Kogi State.
The event, attended by dignitaries including the Vice President, Kashim Shettima, former Governor Yahaya Bello, and National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje, highlighted the peaceful transition of power in the state.
In his inaugural address, Governor Ododo expressed gratitude for the presence of his political rivals during the election, emphasizing a commitment to fostering unity and collaboration for the progress of Kogi State.
“Politics of bitterness is over,” Governor Ododo declared, signaling a new era of cooperation and inclusivity in the state’s governance.
He outlined his administration’s priorities, pledging to make Kogi State a model for key federal government initiatives in areas such as food security, poverty eradication, job creation, access to capital, rule of law, anti-corruption efforts, and economic growth tailored to the state’s unique needs.
Ododo’s victory in the election was affirmed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), with the governor-elect securing 446,237 votes.
His closest rival, Murtala Ajaka of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), garnered 259,052 votes, while Dino Melaye of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) received 46,362 votes.
