The winner of the 2023 governorship election in Kogi, Usman Ododo, has been officially sworn in as the 5th Executive Governor of the state, News About Nigeria report.
The inauguration was held in the capital city of the state, Lokoja, on Saturday, marking the commencement of Ododo’s tenure following his victory on November 11, 2023.
A member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Usman Ododo, took the oath of office at precisely 2:30 p.m., administered by the state Chief Judge, Justice Joseph Majebi.
The event was attended by dignitaries, including Vice President Kashim Shettima and APC Chairman Dr. Abdulahi Ganduje.
Ododo’s deputy, Salifu Oyibo, also took the oath of office during the ceremony. This solidifies their commitment to serving the people of Kogi State.
The newly sworn-in governor succeeded Yahaya Bello, whose second term in office has concluded.
With his victory in the 2023 election, Usman Ododo secured 446,237 votes, defeating his closest rival, Murtala Ajaka of the Social Democratic Party, who garnered 259,052 votes.
Dino Melaye of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) pulled in 46,362 votes.
Following the swearing-in, Ododo expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and pledged to build on the accomplishments of Governor Yahaya Bello while maintaining the unity of the state.
He presented an award of service, the Grand Conference Silver Service Star, to his predecessor, Bello.
During his remarks, Ododo acknowledged Bello for guiding him through the intricacies of governance and reassured the people of Kogi State that he would fulfil his campaign promises.
The ceremony was held at the Muhammadu Buhari Civic Centre.
