…By Lola Smith for TDPel Media.
Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State has given immediate approval for the reinstatement of several key officials in his administration who had resigned to contest for the party’s governorship seat.
The announcement was made in a statement issued by the Secretary to the Kogi State Government, Ayoade Arike Folashade.
Subject to House of Assembly Confirmation
While the governor has approved the reinstatement of these party chieftains, the statement highlights that it is still subject to the scrutiny and confirmation of the House of Assembly.
This step ensures the appropriate review and verification process for their reinstatement.
List of Reinstated Officials
The affected officials include Jibrin Momoh, the former State’s Accountant General, Pharm. Jamiu Abdulkarim Asuku, the former Chief of Staff to the Governor, and Yakubu Okala, the former State Auditor-General.
Additionally, Idris Asiwaju Asiru, the former Commissioner for Finance, Budget, and Economic Planning, and Barr Momodu Ozigi Deedat, the former Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, have been reinstated.
House of Assembly Confirmation Required
The statement emphasizes that the reinstatement of the Auditor-General and the commissioners is subject to the scrutiny and confirmation of the House of Assembly before they can resume their duties.
Notably, these individuals had previously submitted their resignation letters in March.
Their reinstatement has been carefully considered and approved by Governor Yahaya Bello, as stated in the announcement.
Enhancing Efficiency and Effectiveness
The statement expresses confidence that the reinstatement of these officials will further enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the state government in fulfilling its mandate to the people of Kogi State.
Their experience and expertise are expected to contribute positively to the administration’s governance and service delivery.
PDP Chieftains Defect to APC in Kogi State Ahead of 2023 Election
In a setback for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kogi State, several chieftains have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in preparation for the November 2023 governorship election.
The Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, welcomed the group of former PDP members from Igalamela/Odolu Local Government Area.
Defectors and Reasons for Joining APC
Among the defectors are Alhaji Abdullahi Ibrahim, the former caretaker Chairman of Igalamela Local Government Area, along with Hon. Adama Sani, Aikoye Anu, Ahmed Mahmud, and Saidatu Ogohi.
Abdullahi Ibrahim, speaking on behalf of the defectors, cited the progress achieved by Governor Bello’s administration, particularly at the local government level, as their reason for joining the APC.
Supporting APC’s Governorship Candidate
The defectors expressed their readiness to work towards securing victory for the APC in the upcoming governorship election.
They applauded the governor and the APC for selecting Hon. Ododo Ahmed Usman as the party’s governorship candidate.
Abdullahi Ibrahim highlighted his confidence in Usman’s abilities based on his seven years of experience working with the incumbent government.
Governor Bello’s Appreciation and Welcome
Governor Bello expressed his appreciation to the group for acknowledging his administration’s achievements and for choosing to join the APC.
He assured the former PDP members that the APC, as a progressive party, welcomes individuals who are committed to the state’s development.
He emphasized that they will have equal rights and opportunities within the APC, similar to existing members.
Conclusion: Political Realignment in Kogi State
The defection of prominent PDP chieftains to the APC in Kogi State signals a significant political realignment ahead of the 2023 governorship election.
With the support of these defectors and their endorsement of Hon. Ododo Ahmed Usman, the APC aims to strengthen its position and pursue its development agenda in the state.
The move reflects the ongoing dynamics and strategies within the state’s political landscape.