By Charles Akubo.
Stakeholders and political appointees of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Yagba-West convened in Odo-Ere for a strategic assembly aimed at reinforcing party structures and sensitizing citizens on the urgent need to boost voter registration and participation.
The meeting opened with prayers from both Christian and Muslim faithful before the Local Government Party Chairman charged members to demonstrate renewed commitment by holding ward meetings at least twice monthly to deepen grassroots mobilization.
Delivering the keynote address, the Honourable Commissioner for Livestock Development and APC leader in Yagba West, Dr. Olufemi Bolarin, commended stakeholders for their steadfastness, lauded former Governor Alhaji Yahaya Bello for laying a solid foundation, and praised Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo for consolidating that legacy through ongoing developmental projects.
Dr. Bolarin highlighted that Yagba West currently enjoys an unprecedented number of political appointments—an expression of the Governor’s inclusive leadership. He expressed gratitude to the Governor, prayed for his continued success, and wished him a two-term tenure in office.
On the importance of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR), he stressed that it was a direct directive from the Governor and urged appointees to mobilize citizens across wards and polling units to secure their Permanent Voter’s Cards (PVCs), which he described as “the only tool to secure the future.” He encouraged stakeholders to make sacrifices, assuring them that loyalty and dedication would ultimately be rewarded. Special prayers were also offered for the repose of the late father of Governor Ododo.
In his remarks, the Honourable Commissioner for Environment, Engr. Segun Joseph, who co-chaired the meeting and also one of the Leader of the party in Yagba-West, emphasized stronger collaboration and unity within the party. He relayed the Governor’s instruction mandating similar meetings across all 21 LGAs in Kogi State and cautioned that absentees would face disciplinary measures. Drawing from his personal political journey, he underscored patience, loyalty, and teamwork as the keys to lasting success.
Also in attendance were the House of Assembly Member representing Yagba West, Hon. Kuli, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Grassroots Mobilization, Hon. Timi Joseph, the Special Adviser on Urban Development, Hon. Olukayode John, as well as Senior Special Assistants and other political appointees.
The meeting further witnessed a wave of defections from opposition parties, particularly the ADC, whose members described the APC as a stronger, more stable, and credible platform with clearer structures and vision.
In his closing remarks, Hon. Kuli urged all stakeholders and appointees to continue strengthening the APC at the grassroots through active support of ward meetings and sustained financing of local party activities.
