The Special Adviser to the Governor of Kogi State on Youth and Student Matters, Oladele John Nihi, has stated that every qualified citizen of Kogi State has the constitutional right to aspire to the office of Governor, stressing that discussions about the 2027 governorship race are premature.
Speaking while reacting to increasing political speculations across the state, Nihi said there is no reason to discourage anyone with the requisite qualifications and genuine interest from nursing gubernatorial ambitions.
“Anybody who is qualified and wants to run for Governor of Kogi State is welcome. Democracy guarantees every eligible citizen the right to aspire to public office. When we get to that bridge, we will cross it,” he said.
He, however, emphasized that the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo remains fully committed to governance and the delivery of democratic dividends to the people of Kogi State, rather than engaging in premature political contests.
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According to him, Governor Ododo’s immediate political priority is to ensure the overwhelming success of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in future elections across Kogi State.
“Our focus today is not the governorship race. Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo is concentrating on consolidating the gains of his administration while working tirelessly to deliver President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all APC candidates 100 percent in Kogi State. That is where our energy and commitment are directed.”
Nihi called on party members, political stakeholders, and supporters of the APC to remain united and avoid distractions capable of shifting attention away from governance and the development agenda of the Ododo administration.
He reiterated that the government remains committed to fulfilling its promises to the people, assuring Kogites that the administration will continue to prioritize infrastructure, youth empowerment, security, agriculture, education, healthcare, and other critical sectors that directly impact the lives of citizens.
