Ex-Kogi speaker backs Gov Ododo for second term

September 26, 2024

The immediate past Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Prince Mathew Kolawole, has come to the defence of Governor Usman Ododo, asserting that he deserves a second term in office.

Kolawole’s remarks follow the backlash he received for endorsing Ododo during the official flag-off of the APC campaign ahead of the October 19th Local Government Elections.

In his statement, Kolawole emphasised that power ultimately belongs to God, who grants it to whomever He pleases. He expressed confidence in Ododo’s leadership over the past eight months, suggesting that if this trajectory continues, the governor could seamlessly secure a second term.

Kolawole had previously urged the people of Kogi West to rally behind Ododo, temporarily setting aside their aspirations for the governorship. However, his call has been met with criticism from some quarters, which he described as politically motivated and mischievous.

Responding to the criticism, Kolawole asserted that every governor, including Ododo, has the right to seek re-election if they justify their first term. He acknowledged his support for an Okun and Kogi West governor but maintained that this should not detract from the need to support the current administration, which he believes has performed admirably for Kogi West.

Highlighting the importance of development, Kolawole stated that Kogi State has benefitted from Ododo’s leadership, particularly in terms of infrastructure and the welfare of civil servants and pensioners. He praised ongoing road construction projects in Kogi West and called for unity among the people in preparation for the 2027 elections, emphasising that collective efforts are essential for achieving their ambitions.

Kolawole also acknowledged the legacies of former Governor Yahaya Bello, reaffirming his loyalty to both Bello and the current administration under Ododo. He concluded by urging the people of Kogi State to support the governor in building a prosperous future for the state.

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