The Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo has vehemently refuted claims of considering leaving the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC to another political party.
In a statement signed on Saturday by the Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, Governor Ododo denounced his purported plans to defect to another party after the Supreme Court affirmed him as the duly elected winner of the November 11th 2023 Governorship election in the state.
The Governor described the purported planned defection to another party as baseless, urging the general public to ignore the mischief-makers spreading falsehoods.
According to the statement, “the false rumours are from individuals seeking to tarnish the reputation of Governor Ododo, who recently secured a victory at the Supreme Court with the backing of his party. Governor Ododo’s steadfast loyalty to the APC during his electioneering and legal battles underscored his commitment to the party.
“The controversy stemmed from a photograph taken at the wedding ceremony of the daughter of Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas, where Governor Ododo was in attendance alongside other dignitaries from various political backgrounds. The Kogi State Government clarified that the Governor’s presence at the event was merely a gesture of goodwill towards a colleague and not indicative of any defection plans.
“While assuring the people of Kogi State of Governor Ododo’s unwavering support for the APC, the government emphasized his dedication to advancing the party’s objectives both locally and nationally”.
The statement called for unity among governors across party lines in backing the efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to foster national unity and progress.
Continuing, the statement said “The government urged the media to uphold the principles of responsible journalism and refrain from perpetuating unfounded allegations based on vested interests. We are reiterating the importance of factual reporting to maintain trust and credibility with the public.
“As Governor Ododo continues to reaffirm his allegiance to the APC, the political landscape in Kogi State remains stable, with a clear message sent to detractors that the Governor stands resolute in his party affiliation”.
Gov Ododo debunks plans to defect from APC, affirms party loyalty