TOAN Throws Weight Behind Ododo, Tinubu; Hosts Solidarity Rally in Lokoja, Plans to Acquire Gov Form for Ododo
The Tricycle Owners and Operators Association of Nigeria (TOAN), Kogi State Chapter, on Saturday staged a massive solidarity rally and road walk in Lokoja, declaring firm support for the continuity of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo beyond 2027.
The walk, which began at Ganaja Junction and proceeded through Post Office and the NTA Roundabout before terminating at the Government House gate, drew participants from across the state. Organisers described the event as a symbolic demonstration of unity, gratitude and confidence in the current administrations at both federal and state levels.
Addressing members during the rally, the State Chairman of TOAN, Comrade Ahmed Sediq, said the gathering reflected more than political loyalty. According to him, it served as a public testament to the positive impact felt by transport workers under the leadership of President Tinubu and Governor Ododo.
Sediq noted that tricycle riders, who operate at the grassroots level, understand daily citizen realities and can attest to the practical policies implemented by both leaders. He praised President Tinubu’s leadership as courageous and transformative, citing the introduction of cleaner transport alternatives through the Presidential CNG Initiative, economic reforms, infrastructure investments and efforts to strengthen national security. These initiatives, he said, have created long-term economic opportunities for riders, artisans and small-scale operators nationwide.
The TOAN chairman also lauded Governor Ododo for what he described as visible and people-centred governance in Kogi State. He highlighted improved security across communities and highways, ongoing road construction projects, youth empowerment programmes and prompt payment of workers’ salaries and benefits as achievements that have directly boosted grassroots economic activity.
According to Sediq, increased income circulation among workers has translated into improved patronage for tricycle operators. He further praised the governor for partnering with the Federal Government on industrial development, including the establishment of five LNG plants in Ajaokuta, and for his recent investment-driven visit to Hunan Province in China.
Sediq described Governor Ododo’s reformation of the state’s security architecture as unprecedented, noting the integration of local vigilantes into the civil service—a move that has provided pensionable jobs and strengthened community security. He said the initiative has helped position Kogi as one of the safest states in Nigeria.
In what became one of the event’s major highlights, TOAN announced its decision to purchase the gubernatorial nomination form for Governor Ododo in the next election cycle. Sediq stressed that leaders who deliver meaningful results deserve continuity, adding that the union would take the governor’s re-election campaign as its personal project.
Also speaking at the rally, the Chairman of TOAN in Kogi East, Comrade Abu H. Ibrahim, reaffirmed the unwavering support of riders from the zone. He stated that opposing Governor Ododo would amount to hindering youth progress in the state, stressing that the governor’s policies resonate with young people and transport workers.
Other speakers, including several branch chairmen, echoed their collective decision to support both President Tinubu and Governor Ododo, citing achievements in security, infrastructure and youth empowerment as core reasons for their stance.
Hon. Sanni Egidi Abdulraheem, Member representing Ajaokuta Federal Constituency and member of TOAN’s Board of Trustees, joined the rally, commending the union for its public endorsement. He described Governor Ododo as a “chief servant of the state” and assured members that their support for both leaders would be rewarding.
The rally recorded a significant turnout of government officials, including commissioners, political appointees and dignitaries from different sectors. The atmosphere in Lokoja remained vibrant throughout the march as riders displayed banners, chanted solidarity songs and moved through major streets, signalling a strong wave of support ahead of the next electoral season.
Compiled By Abdulhameed Ivavah
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