Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has praised the conduct of the state’s local government elections, describing the atmosphere as a significant departure from the violence and tension he said had characterised previous polls.

Ododo spoke shortly after casting his vote at his polling unit in Upogoro, Okene Local Government Area, on Saturday, October 17, 2026. He expressed satisfaction with the exercise and attributed the atmosphere to improved security and support from the Federal Government.

The governor said the relatively calm environment had encouraged residents to participate in the electoral process without fear. He also urged political stakeholders and residents to cooperate with election officials and security agencies until the exercise was concluded.

Ododo used the occasion to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, crediting his administration with supporting security efforts in the state. He argued that the conditions surrounding the election represented progress compared with earlier experiences of local government polls.

Recalling past violence, the governor referred to the death of Yahaya Aliu, whom he said was killed and burnt in the community. He presented the incident as an example of the dangers associated with previous elections and contrasted it with the atmosphere he observed during Saturday’s exercise.

The governor also challenged opposition parties to engage constructively in the political process and demonstrate their commitment to good governance and the development of Kogi State. He reaffirmed his administration’s pledge to protect lives and property.

Ododo’s remarks came as the Kogi State Independent Electoral Commission conducted local government chairmanship and councillorship elections across the state. While the governor described the exercise as peaceful, free and transparent, a comprehensive assessment of the election would require independent reports covering voter participation, the conduct of officials and any alleged irregularities.