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The Kogi East APC Youths Movement, representing the youth from the nine Local Government Areas of Kogi East, has issued a strong statement against the entrenched ethnic politics that has historically plagued the region, expressing the group’s commitment to unity and progressive governance. The group also endorsed Governor Usman Ododo for his inclusive policies and development initiatives.

The movement, primarily comprising the Igala and Bassa ethnic groups, criticized the legacy of ethnic tribalism left by past politicians. They emphasized their support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) and reiterated their loyalty to Governor Ododo, praising his administration for continuing the youth-focused policies initiated by his predecessor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello.

The convener of the group, Emmanuel Promise, during a press briefing in Lokoja on Tuesday, said Governor Ododo’s administration, noted for appointing young leaders such as Hon. Monday Anyebe as Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development and Hon. Oladele Niyi as Special Adviser on Youths and Student Affairs, reflects a commitment to empowering the youth demographic. The movement cited these appointments as evidence of the governor’s dedication to inclusive governance.

He condemned politicians who exploit ethnic divisions for personal gain, stating that such tactics are detrimental to the collective progress of Kogi State. The youth group accused these politicians of being united by self-interest rather than the public good, often using ethnic sentiments to mask their true motives.

Key points from the movement’s statement include:

A call to reject politicians who use ethnic politics for personal profit, describing them as lacking vision and strong leadership.
A denunciation of the ethnic manipulation by politicians who do not invest in their communities but rather serve their personal interests.
An affirmation that Kogi State belongs to all its people, regardless of tribal affiliation.

The group expressed strong support for Governor Ododo’s efforts to bridge ethnic divides, highlighting his fair distribution of development projects across all regions, including those that did not support him in the last election. Specific projects mentioned were contracts worth N29.9 billion for erosion control and road construction in various local government areas.

Governor Ododo’s actions, such as ensuring full salary payments and enhancing state security with the deployment of local hunters, were praised as tangible steps towards equitable governance. His rapid response to the recent kidnapping incident at Confluence University of Science and Technology Osara further showcased his commitment to the safety and welfare of all Kogites.

The movement urged the people of Kogi to stand united against the divisive forces of tribalism and to support Governor Ododo’s vision for a harmonious and progressive state. They expressed confidence that the governor’s mandate would be upheld by the tribunal, reinforcing the legitimacy of his leadership.

The Kogi East APC Youths Movement called for an end to ethnic politics, advocating for unity and cooperation among all ethnic groups in Kogi State to achieve shared prosperity and development.

Executives of the group includes

Amb Samuel A Danjuma – Idah LGA
Obadiah Samuel Eta – Bassa
Suleiman Baba-Ibrahim Sodangi – Bassa LGA
Hon Chief Treasure Eunice Achimugu – Igalamela-Odolu LGA
Mudi Shehu – Dekina LGA
Simeon Omale JP – Omala LGA
Hon. Mathew Ochada – Omala LGA
Hon. Baba Ojonugwa – Ankpa LGA
Akor Martins – Ankpa LGA
Johnson Musa – Dekina LGA
Prince Suleiman Abdulkadir – Idah LGA
Hon. Emmanuel Okpe – Olamaboro LGA
Samuel Omale – Omala LGA
Unekwu Victoria Akubo – Dekina LGA.
Hon. Ocholi Okpanachi – Ofu LGA
Uyunwu Clement – Ibaji LGA