The palace of the Prime Minister of the Igala Kingdom, the Achadu Oko Attah, His Royal Majesty Yusuf Atama Ameadaji II, was a beehive of activity as thousands of supporters gathered to receive the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for Kogi East Senatorial District, Chief Dr. Joseph Ameh Erico, during a courtesy visit to the revered traditional ruler.
The visit drew a large crowd of party supporters, youth groups, women associations, community leaders and residents from different parts of the district, many of whom lined the roads leading to the palace to welcome the APC flagbearer.
The atmosphere was lively, with supporters chanting slogans, waving party insignia and expressing confidence in Erico’s bid to represent Kogi East in the Senate.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Erico said the future of Kogi East lies in the proper development and utilisation of its abundant natural resources, particularly the oil and gas deposits located in Ibaji Local Government Area.
According to him, the district possesses enormous economic potential that can be unlocked through deliberate policies, strategic investments and partnerships aimed at creating jobs and improving the living standards of the people.
“I am fully committed to supporting every effort that will bring meaningful development to our people,” Erico said.
“The mineral resources in our land are God-given blessings. The Ibaji Oil and Gas project, in particular, has the capacity to create jobs, attract investment and stimulate economic growth across Kogi East and beyond.”
The APC senatorial candidate noted that communities hosting natural resources should be active beneficiaries of the wealth generated from them, stressing that local participation and inclusive development would remain key priorities under his leadership.
He also pledged to work with traditional institutions, government agencies and private investors to attract development projects and economic opportunities to the district.
“Our people deserve to benefit directly from the resources in their communities. Through collaboration and proper planning, we can create opportunities for our youths, support businesses and improve infrastructure across Kogi East,” he added.
In his response, the Achadu Oko Attah, His Royal Majesty Yusuf Atama Ameadaji II, welcomed the APC candidate and commended him for paying homage to the traditional institution.
The royal father urged political leaders and public office seekers to remain focused on programmes and initiatives that would positively impact the lives of ordinary citizens.
He also stressed the importance of peace, unity and responsible leadership, noting that meaningful development can only take place in a stable and harmonious environment.
“The progress of our people should always remain the priority. Leaders must continue to pursue initiatives that will bring growth, peace and prosperity to the land,” the monarch said.
The traditional ruler further expressed optimism that the vast mineral resources within the district could become a major source of economic advancement if properly harnessed and managed for the benefit of the people.
The visit concluded with prayers for peace and continued development in Kogi State, as well as the growth of democratic institutions in the country.
Supporters remained at the palace grounds long after the event, cheering the APC candidate and reaffirming their support for his senatorial ambition ahead of the forthcoming election.
