By joshua Gov. Ododo Should Justify His Appointments
By Engr. Ubaid Chatta
Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo should ensure that his appointments reflect fairness, inclusiveness, and recognition of those who genuinely contributed to his electoral success.
The 2023 governorship campaign that produced Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo was driven by an extensive network of support groups, grassroots organisations and campaign structures that worked tirelessly across Kogi State. These included the Ododo Independent Campaign Council (OICC), which coordinated major campaign activities and statewide mobilisation for the APC; the Ododo Sure Movement (OSM), which undertook door-to-door voter mobilisation; the Ododo Progressive Network (OPN), which focused on youth mobilisation and stakeholder engagement; and student-based groups such as Ododo School to School and Ododo Campus Ambassadors, established in tertiary institutions, including the Federal College of Education, Okene, to promote the campaign’s message among young people.
The campaign was built around the “Continuity and Consolidation Agenda,” a policy direction aimed at sustaining and expanding the achievements of the previous administration. Popular campaign slogans such as “Think Ododo, Drink Ododo, Sing Ododo” and the “Ododo/Joel ’23” branding became familiar across communities and reflected the broad participation of supporters from different backgrounds.
Beyond these officially recognised structures, many vibrant youth organisations also worked under the Independent Campaign Council (ICC), led by Alhaji Adams Onota, making personal sacrifices to mobilise support for the APC candidate. Many volunteers contributed financially, donated campaign materials and committed their time and energy without expecting financial sponsorship from the campaign council.
Today, many of those committed supporters feel neglected. Some supporters say that campaign leaders who were once accessible have become distant, leaving many grassroots mobilisers disappointed and discouraged.
Within Kogi Central Senatorial District, there is a widespread perception among some party members that political appointments have not been evenly distributed. Critics argue that many strategic positions have been concentrated among a few clans and individuals with close political connections, creating a sense of exclusion among loyal party faithful who believe their sacrifices have gone unrecognised.
For the sake of unity, party cohesion and good governance, the administration should review its approach to appointments to ensure that every community and interest group has a sense of belonging. Rewarding loyalty, competence and commitment fairly would strengthen confidence in the government and reinforce support for the APC.
As political activities ahead of the 2027 elections gradually gather momentum, there are increasing discussions about possible political realignments. Reports and political speculation suggest that alliances are being explored across the state’s senatorial districts, while various interest groups within the APC continue to hold consultations on the party’s future.
Some political observers also believe that several influential Ebira political figures who feel sidelined may be considering new alliances. Whether these reports prove accurate or not, they reflect concerns that should not be ignored. Political inclusion remains one of the strongest foundations for party unity.
History has shown that internal divisions often pose greater electoral challenges than external opposition. For this reason, the APC leadership in Kogi State should prioritise reconciliation, fairness and broad-based stakeholder engagement as preparations for the 2027 elections continue.
Many Ebira people remember a period when they felt politically marginalised under previous administrations. It would therefore be unfortunate if similar feelings of exclusion were to emerge under an administration led by one of their own. Every government should strive to ensure that all groups feel respected, valued and adequately represented.
The popular saying remains true: “A stitch in time saves nine.” Addressing concerns early through dialogue, equitable appointments and inclusive leadership will strengthen the party, promote unity and improve its prospects in future elections.
The opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer.
By
Engr. Ubaid Chatta
DG: Ododo School to School Movement