On Monday, the Kogi State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal confirmed Usman Ododo as the legitimate Governor of Kogi State. This ruling came after the tribunal dismissed the petition filed by Muritala Ajaka of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), who had challenged Ododo’s election victory.
The three-member tribunal, led by Justice Ado Birnin-Kudu, thoroughly examined the allegations brought forward by Ajaka and the SDP. However, the tribunal concluded that the petitioners failed to substantiate their claims against the respondents. Justice Birnin-Kudu stated that the November 11, 2023, election was conducted in substantial compliance with the Electoral Act, thereby validating the results announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
INEC had declared Usman Ododo, the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), as the winner of the gubernatorial election. Ododo secured 446,237 votes, significantly surpassing his closest rival, Muritala Ajaka, who garnered 259,052 votes. Dino Melaye of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) trailed with 46,362 votes.
Ododo’s victory marked a significant milestone in his political career. Before his election as governor, he served as the Auditor General of Kogi State and was known to be a close ally of the immediate-past governor, Yahaya Bello. His election campaign had focused on continuity and building upon the achievements of the previous administration.
The tribunal’s decision has put to rest the legal tussle over the governorship position, affirming the mandate given to Ododo by the electorate. Following his inauguration on January 27, 2024, Ododo has expressed his commitment to driving development in Kogi State and addressing the needs of its citizens.
In his acceptance speech, Governor Ododo emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation among all political stakeholders to achieve the state’s development goals. He acknowledged the support of the people of Kogi State and pledged to work tirelessly to improve their living standards. Ododo also called on his opponents to join hands with his administration in the spirit of democracy and progress.
The tribunal’s ruling is seen as a victory for the APC and a testament to the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral process. It underscores the importance of adhering to legal procedures in resolving electoral disputes and reinforces the democratic principle that the will of the people, as expressed through the ballot, must be respected.
As Governor Ododo embarks on his tenure, the people of Kogi State look forward to a period of progress and stability, with hopes that his administration will fulfill its promises and bring about positive change.
