RE: Pressure Group Calls for Gov. Ododo’s Resignation Over Alleged Ties to Yahaya Bello »

Our attention has been drawn to a press release issued by an unknown pressure group, allegedly signed by individuals named Obafemi Medaiyese, Joseph Mebatonije, Yusuf Kpareke, Jimoh Ozovehe, Nurudeen Adaviriku, Isiaka Momoh, Ojonimi Adegbe, Mark Onucheyo and Husseini Saidu, claiming to represent federal constituencies across Kogi State and calling for the resignation of the duly elected Executive Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo.

First, after careful investigation, we categorically state that neither the group nor the individuals are known within our political and community structures. If they truly exist, we challenge them to make themselves publicly known within 24 hours.
ODODO SEASON 2 GRASSROOT NETWORK, speaking through its Director General, Hon. Matthew James Omeiza, describes the publication as politically motivated and orchestrated by faceless individuals who are uncomfortable with the visible achievements recorded across the state since Governor Ododo assumed office.

We have credible reasons to believe that the statement was sponsored by desperate politicians operating from outside the state, whose sole objective is to discredit the government and undermine the steady progress Kogi State is experiencing.

Since the inception of this administration, Kogi State has witnessed significant achievements: prompt payment of salaries, improved security architecture including the deployment of drones to combat criminal activities, steady progress in the three state universities and other educational sectors, youth engagement programmes, over 300 ongoing road projects, and numerous infrastructural developments across the state. Only the willfully blind would deny these visible accomplishments and call for the governor’s resignation.

On the allegation by the so-called Movement for the Emancipation of Kogi State (MEKSTA) that Governor Ododo is a “mere puppet” of former Governor Alhaji Yahaya Bello, we state unequivocally that this claim is false and malicious.
Governor Ododo is a humble leader who respects the role God used others to play in his emergence but remains fully independent in governance. Seeking counsel from predecessors is a mark of wisdom, not weakness. Those expecting conflict between leaders in order to stall development will be disappointed.

Former Governor Yahaya Bello left office on January 27, 2024, and has since allowed the present administration to function. Governor Ododo, an accountant by profession, has demonstrated prudence in public spending and commitment to the welfare of the people. Claims that he is covering any alleged financial misconduct are baseless and purely political.

We therefore call on the faceless group to stop hiding behind anonymous statements. They should openly identify themselves so the people of Kogi State can know those attempting to mislead the public.

Power cannot be obtained through propaganda, blackmail or falsehood. Rather than spreading unfounded allegations, critics should present constructive alternatives and clearly state what they can do better for the people of Kogi State.