A grassroots politician from Olamaboro Local Government Area of Kogi State, Hon. Odiniya Matthew, has been elected as the State Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kogi State, marking a significant milestone in his more than two decades of political participation and community engagement.
Party stakeholders described his emergence as a recognition of his years of dedication to grassroots mobilization, party organization, and his unwavering commitment to strengthening the structure of the ruling party across the state.
Hon. Matthew began his political career at the grassroots level when he was elected Councilor representing Olamaboro Ward 2 between 2004 and 2006. During his tenure, he served as Minority Leader in the Olamaboro Local Government Legislative Council under the platform of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), where he actively participated in legislative deliberations and oversight functions within the council.
Over the years, Matthew has remained actively involved in political mobilization and community development initiatives within Olamaboro Local Government Area and other parts of the state. Political observers note that his deep grassroots connections and calm leadership style have contributed significantly to his acceptance among party members and leaders.
His election as State Secretary has also been linked to the support and confidence of key party stakeholders, including Joseph Erico Ameh, who, alongside other party leaders, backed his emergence based on his loyalty, experience, and organizational capacity.
As State Secretary, Matthew is expected to play a strategic administrative role within the party. His responsibilities will include coordinating party documentation, maintaining official records and communications, and assisting the leadership in organizing party activities across Kogi State.
Party members have expressed optimism that his experience at the ward and local government levels will strengthen internal coordination, enhance party administration, and promote unity within the APC structure in the state.
In his acceptance speech following his emergence, Hon. Odiniya Matthew expressed deep appreciation to party leaders and members for the confidence reposed in him.
“I am deeply honored and humbled by the trust placed in me by the leadership and members of the All Progressives Congress in Kogi State. This responsibility is not mine alone; it belongs to every loyal party member who has worked tirelessly for the growth of our great party,” he said.
He described his emergence as a call to greater service and pledged to strengthen the administrative structure of the party.
“For more than two decades, I have remained committed to grassroots mobilization and party organization. From my days as Councilor representing Olamaboro Ward 2 to this moment, my focus has always been on building a strong and united party structure,” Matthew stated.
The newly elected State Secretary also acknowledged the role played by party stakeholders who supported his emergence.
“I sincerely appreciate respected leaders of our party, especially Joseph Erico Ameh, and other stakeholders whose encouragement and support made this possible. Their confidence in me will continue to inspire my dedication to service,” he added.
Matthew further pledged to work closely with the party leadership to consolidate the achievements of the APC in the state.
“As State Secretary, I will work closely with the party leadership to ensure efficient coordination of party activities, proper documentation, and transparent communication within our structure. Our goal is to strengthen unity, expand participation, and ensure that our party remains strong and responsive to the aspirations of the people.”
He concluded by reaffirming his commitment to democratic participation and the development of the state.
“I remain committed to promoting unity within our party, strengthening democratic values, and supporting initiatives that will contribute to the development, peace, and stability of Kogi State,” he said.
His emergence has been widely welcomed by party faithful, particularly in Olamaboro Local Government Area, where supporters say his grassroots political experience will bring greater inclusiveness, improved coordination, and stronger organization to the party’s activities across Kogi State.
