Ododo’s achievements will ensure his 2027 re-election – Ex-Kogi speaker

Matthew Kolawole's Endorsement

Former Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Matthew Kolawole, has publicly thrown his weight behind Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, confidently predicting his re-election in the 2027 governorship poll. This endorsement is significant as it comes from a prominent political figure within the state, signaling a unified front within the ruling party or a strong belief in the governor's current trajectory. Such public statements often serve to galvanize party loyalists and influence public perception, framing the incumbent's tenure in a positive light.

Kolawole's remarks emphasize that a government's performance should be judged by its tangible achievements and impact on citizens' lives, rather than mere political sentiment. This approach attempts to shift the narrative towards a results-oriented assessment, highlighting specific sectors where the administration claims to have made progress. The former speaker's backing provides a layer of political legitimacy to the governor's reported accomplishments, aiming to solidify his standing among the electorate.

Ododo's Administration

Since assuming office in January 2024, Governor Ododo's administration has reportedly focused on a broad development agenda encompassing security, infrastructure, human capital development, economic growth, and improved welfare for Kogi State residents. Key initiatives cited include extensive road construction and rehabilitation across various communities, demonstrating a commitment to improving connectivity and facilitating economic activities. These infrastructure projects are often visible and directly impact daily life, serving as concrete examples of governmental action.

Beyond roads, the administration has commenced work on the proposed Kogi International Airport, a project envisioned to boost transportation, attract investment, and stimulate the state's economy. In the social sectors, efforts have been directed towards education through bursaries, scholarships, and school renovations, alongside investments in primary healthcare infrastructure and measures to retain medical personnel. The government has also prioritized food security through agricultural production and agribusiness, alongside youth and women empowerment programs, all aimed at reducing unemployment and increasing economic productivity.

2027 Re-election Prospects

Kolawole's confidence in Ododo's 2027 re-election is not solely based on the administration's achievements but also on the perceived credibility of the electoral process. He referenced the conduct of the Ekiti and Osun governorship elections as indicators that the INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, is prepared to conduct free, fair, and credible general elections in 2027. This suggests an attempt to preemptively address concerns about electoral integrity, which is a recurring issue in Nigerian politics.

The former speaker's call for political parties and stakeholders to adhere to electoral rules and for Nigerians to actively participate underscores the importance of a transparent and peaceful electoral process. The credibility of the upcoming elections, he noted, will hinge on the independence of electoral institutions, the conduct of political actors, and the collective willingness to accept legitimate outcomes. This framing positions Ododo's re-election as a natural consequence of his performance and a fair electoral system, rather than a foregone conclusion.