DAILYUPDATES

Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress in Lokoja Local Government Area have endorsed Hon. Shehu Tijjani Bin-Ebaiya, member representing Lokoja I State Constituency in the Kogi State House of Assembly, as the party’s consensus candidate ahead of the coming election.  The decision was reached at a well-attended stakeholders’ meeting convened to foster unity and present a common front for the APC in Lokoja I. The endorsement came after an open secret ballot was conducted among delegates and party leaders present at the meeting. At the end of the exercise, Hon. Ebaiya polled 18 votes, while two other aspirants scored six votes and one vote respectively, paving the way for his emergence as the consensus choice of Lokoja APC stakeholders. Party leaders said the open secret ballot was adopted to ensure transparency while still upholding the party’s preference for consensus to avoid rancor. They noted that all aspirants were present and agreed to abide by the outcome, de...

Commercial Activities in the ancient and oil rich town of Gegu Beki, Kogi LGA, stood still, on Sunday, as Members of 4G Network staged a Solidarity Walk for President Ahmed Bola Tinubu and Gov Usman Ahmed Ododo, assuring that the Local Government Area is a no go area for opposition Parties. Speaking at the walk, Engr. Bashiru Gegu, Kogi State Commissioner for Solid Minerals and Natural Resources, described the walk as just testing the microphone, said it is obvious that President Tinubu and Gov. Ododo have no rival. The roads became block as the sounds of drums, matching in white colored T-shirts and face caps, with the pictures of President Tinubu, Gov. Ododo, the APC took over the streets. Motorists captivated by the walk and passion displayed by the people of Gegu Beki, had no choice but to alight from their vehicles, Join in singing that on the mandate of President Tinubu and Gov Ododo is where they stand. Speaking further, Engr. Bashiru said " You can see the sea ...

... Hon. Gambo describes Senator as timely, visionary leader whose impact cannot be mortgaged The Kogi State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Muhammed Sanni Gambo, has declared Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan as the most outstanding lawmaker Kogi State has produced since the return to democracy in 1999, urging the people of Kogi Central to remain resolute in supporting her for a second term in 2027. Hon. Gambo made the remarks on Friday while addressing a delegation of PDP members who paid him a courtesy visit at his office in Lokoja. He described the Senator as a “rare breed politician” whose leadership has brought unprecedented pride and tangible development to the State. He praised her unwavering commitment to the party, the Chairman said Sen. Natasha has consistently funded the PDP in Kogi and proven herself a worthy and dependable leader.  “She has displayed leadership qualities in an unprecedented manner. When she speaks, members listen. She is...

The Vice Chancellor of Federal University of Allied Health Sciences Enugu, Professor John Emaimo, on Tuesday, received a delegation from the Federal Fire Service, Enugu State Command, led by Dr Ezeora Godwin Chinweuba (ACF) State Controller, Federal Fire Service, Enugu State Command, during a courtesy visit aimed at strengthening Fire safety collaboration. Speaking during the visit, Dr. Chinweuba, the State Controller (ACF), explained that the engagement was designed to familiarise the Command with the Institution as one of the rapidly expanding Establishments within its operational coverage.  He noted that the visit also provided an opportunity to offer expert guidance and precautionary measures necessary for maintaining a safe and hazard-free Environment, more importantly to enlighten the School Community on how to handle Fire equipment in case of any incident. Responding, The Vice Chancellor, Professor Emaimo described the visit as both timely and essential, particul...

The Executive Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to transparency, inclusiveness, and sustainable development. He pledged to continue pursuing policies and programmes that improve the lives of the people and position Kogi State as a preferred destination for investment, innovation, and growth. The Kogi Rebrand 2026, themed “Reimagining Kogi: Unlocking Opportunities and Building Prosperity,” was held on Friday in Lokoja, the state capital. The Governor noted that the theme reflects the vision of his administration from the very first day he assumed office, with a firm promise to redefine governance by placing the people at the centre of all policies. In his words: “While projecting Kogi State as a land of immense possibilities, it is not merely about changing the narrative; it is about aligning perception with reality.  Today, our state is making steady progress across key sectors. We...

The Vice-Chancellor of Federal University Lokoja (FUL), Professor Gbenga Solomon Ibileye, has called for a strategic partnership between the institution and the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) to accelerate investment in artificial intelligence (AI) and strengthen digital technology across Nigerian universities. Prof. Ibileye made the appeal on Thursday in Lokoja during the 4th Memorial Lecture held in honour of the late Engineer Joseph Oyeyani Makoju. He said the university had placed the commercialisation of research and the translation of knowledge into tangible development outcomes at the core of its Vision Plan 2026–2031. “At Federal University Lokoja, we have made the commercialisation of research and the translation of knowledge into development outcomes a cornerstone of our Vision Plan. We are building an Innovation and Entrepreneurship Hub, supported by our operational solar farm at the Felele Permanent Campus,” he said. The Vice...

At the meeting of the Asuta Ward Executive Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) held on the 23rd day of April. 2026. The Asuta Ward Executive committee unanimously resolved to endorse Hon. (Barr.) Emmanuel Funsho Boluromi as their preferred aspirant from Asuta Ward for the upcoming AII Progressives Congress [APC] primary election for Kabba/Bunu 1 House of Assembly. This resolution was reached after careful consideration of all aspirants aspiring from Asuta Ward which is not limited to their track record and commitment to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The Committee note with appreciation that Hon. (Barr.) Emmanuel Funsho Boluromi has rendered long -time service to the All Progressives Congress beyond mobilizing for the party and he has made significant financial contribution to the party, display steadfastness and loyalty to the party. In recognition of his endless contribution and advancement of the aims and Objectives of the All Progressives Congress in ...

That’s a valid concern about candidate credibility and party loyalty ahead of 2027. The core issue: A candidate who could not deliver their own polling unit for the APC in 2023 — from the presidential to the governorship election — and who consistently loses in his Ward should not be the party’s flag bearer for Kabba/Bunu State Constituency. If results from 2015 to 2023 show a pattern of defeat at their own polling unit, it raises serious questions about grassroots influence and electoral viability. Why this matters for APC: -Polling unit performance is the first test. If a candidate cannot win where they live and vote, it is hard to convince the wider constituency they can deliver the whole seat. - Party strength depends on reliable structures. Giving the ticket to someone with a weak track record risks losing the seat to the opposition, regardless of how strong the party is at the state level. - Governor Ododo’s responsibility: As the party leader in Kogi State, His Excel...

The issue surrounding the forthcoming primary election in Kabba/Bunu State Constituency has become a matter of urgent public interest, requiring clarity, fairness, and strict adherence to democratic principles. Despite ongoing discussions and speculations, it is important to state that the Independent National Electoral Commission has not released any official statement regarding the court judgment affecting the inclusion of Kabba/Bunu Constituency I and II in the ballot. This uncertainty makes it even more critical for due process to be followed. In light of this, all aspirants across both constituencies have maintained a united position: regardless of the final outcome concerning Constituency I and II, there must be a credible, transparent, and inclusive primary election that allows every qualified aspirant to participate fairly. A primary election remains a cornerstone of democracy. It guarantees fairness, promotes transparency, strengthens party unity, and ensures that ...

Fidelis Bello is a dynamic and results-driven administrator, grassroots mobilizer, and seasoned project management professional with over 15 years of extensive experience across governance, business development, risk management, and community engagement.  Renowned for his strategic thinking, leadership acumen, and unwavering commitment to public service, he has consistently demonstrated the capacity to drive impactful change at both grassroots and institutional levels. Currently serving as Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Grassroots Mobilisation to the Executive Governor of Kogi State Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo,  Fidelis plays a pivotal role in strengthening the bridge between government and the people.  In this capacity, he is actively engaged in mobilizing communities, fostering political inclusion, and ensuring that government policies and programs resonate effectively at the grassroots level. His work continues to reinforce democratic participation and deep...

Fidelis Bello is a dynamic and results-driven administrator, grassroots mobilizer, and seasoned project management professional with over 15 years of extensive experience across governance, business development, risk management, and community engagement.  Renowned for his strategic thinking, leadership acumen, and unwavering commitment to public service, he has consistently demonstrated the capacity to drive impactful change at both grassroots and institutional levels. Currently serving as Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Grassroots Mobilisation to the Executive Governor of Kogi State Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo,  Fidelis plays a pivotal role in strengthening the bridge between government and the people.  In this capacity, he is actively engaged in mobilizing communities, fostering political inclusion, and ensuring that government policies and programs resonate effectively at the grassroots level. His work continues to reinforce democratic participation and deep...

Tensions are rising ahead of the 2027 House of Assembly elections in Kabba/Bunu as Hon. Motunrayo Idowu Olonikadi has firmly rejected mounting calls for her to step down, instead demanding a transparent and open primary process. In a strongly worded statement released by her media team, Olonikadi’s camp expressed “utter dismay” over what it described as attempts to force her withdrawal from the race. The statement condemned such moves as “anti-democratic,” warning that democracy must be anchored on credible contests rather than what it termed “induced consensus.” The camp further alleged that certain political actors, particularly within Oke-Koko ward, are orchestrating a coordinated effort to pressure aspirants into stepping aside for a preferred candidate. According to the statement, such actions represent a “voodoo style of democracy” and undermine the principles of fairness and inclusion. Distancing herself from what was described as “ignoble and reckless acts,” Olonika...

Lokoja – Supporters of the Senator representing Kogi West Senatorial District in the National Assembly Sen Sunday Karimi have dismissed a recent “vote of no confidence” purportedly passed by stakeholders in Kogi Local Government Area, describing it as “paper noise” that does not reflect the will of the people. In a statement signed by Maliki Tudun Wada, released on Tuesday, the group argued that the senator’s track record across Kogi LGA contradicts claims of non-performance, citing visible projects and interventions in education, water, welfare, and youth empowerment. “You’re claiming ‘no confidence’ in a senator who turned GSS Kotonkarfi into a ₦1.2 billion modern school; put solar-powered boreholes across wards in Kogi LGA; supported families during Ramadan, Easter, Salah and Christmas; gave ₦100,000 bursaries to over 100 students in 2024 and 150 in 2025; and funded women’s small businesses across communities,” the statement read. “And somehow that equals failure?” The g...

By Thompson Yamput The rising attacks in rural communities of the once peaceful, homely, and hospitable Plateau call for urgent, strategic, and lasting solutions. The carnages, pains, and sorrows brought upon the peaceful and loving people of Plateau demand drastic action and measures to put a stop. It’s on record that several communities in Riyom, Barkin-Ladi, Bokkos, Mangu, Bassa, Wase, Kanam Local Government Areas (LGAs) have been dislodged by Fulani militias, who have taken over those communities, including their farmlands and other natural resources. Many innocent lives, including children and women, have been lost to the attacks on the people by supposed enemies of the state, for reasons best known to them. For instance, it’s alarming and worrisome, so deadly and destructive, the unexpected callous Easter Sunday evening attack on Angwan Rukuba community, Jos. In that dastardly attack, many were killed without a trace of any of the attackers. Similarly, there were pock...

The Special Adviser to the Kogi State Governor on Strategic Investment and Liaison with Federal Agencies, Amb. Chief Hassiat Ozavize Suleiman, has been appointed as the Woman Patronness, North-Central of Team Tinubu 2027, a political support group mobilising backing for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 presidential election. Her appointment was conveyed in an official letter and signed by Bishop Stephen Adegbite, Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission, Chaplain of Aso Villa, and National Grand Patron of Team Tinubu 2027. Team Tinubu 2027 is among support groups positioning to galvanise grassroots support for President Tinubu’s anticipated re-election bid. The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, is said to serve as the National Grand Patroness of the organisation. Presenting her appointment letter, Bishop Stephen Adegbite extolled Amb. Suleiman, stating that she was selected in recognition of her track record in human manag...

By Abah Benjamin Eneojoh  April 18, 2026 The Kogi State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to preserving culture, promoting girl-child education and strengthening unity across the state. Speaking at the grand finale of the 2026 Ovia Osese Cultural Festival in Ogori, Ogori-Magongo Local Government Area on Saturday, Governor Ododo, represented by his Deputy, Comrade Joel Salifu, described the festival as more than a celebration. According to him, Ovia Osese represents the history, identity and values of the Ogori people, while also serving as a tool for education, tourism and economic development. The Governor commended the organisers of the festival, especially the President of the Ogori Descendants Union, Dr. Gabriel Aiso, for making this year’s event bigger and more impactful. Governor Ododo also highlighted the importance of educating and empowering the girl child. He noted that Ogori has become an example to others because more girls are now in scho...

The Chief Medical Director of Kogi State Specialist Hospital, Dr. Oluseyi Bamidele Folagbade, has flagged off the distribution of campaign materials for the re-election of President Bola Tinubu and Governor Usman Ahmed Ododo ahead of the 2027 general election. The materials, which include face caps, T-shirts and other sensitization items, were provided by the CMD. Speaking during the flag-off alongside management staff of the hospital, Dr. Folagbade described health sector policies under the Tinubu and Ododo administrations as “encouraging” and said another term would sustain the “laudable programmes” of both leaders. He cited the increase in allowances for medical personnel in Kogi, prompt payment of salaries, and improvement of health infrastructure as key achievements. He also praised the ongoing construction and reconstruction of primary health care centres across the state, calling the administration’s health policies “unprecedented.” Dr. Folagbade said his support for...

The Kogi State Government has announced plans to establish a Special Task Force Unit comprising key stakeholders to monitor, coordinate, and curb traffic-related crashes across the state. This was contained in a communiqué issued following a stakeholders’ meeting chaired by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Road Safety Matters, Dr. Suberu Yusuf-John, at the Glass House, Government House, Lokoja. The communiqué expressed deep concern over the rising loss of lives caused by reckless and careless driving, describing the trend as unacceptable. According to the statement, the proposed Task Force Unit will play a critical role in reducing road accidents and ensuring safer highways for millions of road users. It will also address traffic congestion, particularly during festive periods, through effective traffic management, strategic personnel deployment, and strict enforcement of regulations. The task force, with the support of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), t...

By Abu Micheal.   ... How Hon. Umar Yahaya’s organic popularity, verifiable projects, and cross-party appeal are reshaping the race for Ankpa House of Reps seat Politics in Ankpa Federal Constituency took a decisive turn last weekend when the Legacy Group, a network of notable Omala indigenes at home and in the diaspora, endorsed Hon. Umar Yahaya, Member Representing Omala State Constituency, for the Ankpa Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives. Ordinarily, an endorsement for Hon. Yahaya, popularly called “Connect”, should not unsettle anyone. His accomplishments remain unchallenged by past political office holders and representatives.  His popularity is organically driven, a rare support base he earned even before becoming a lawmaker. So when the Legacy Group adopted him, it did not come as a surprise to constituents who have tracked his trajectory. A Footprint That Predates Office Hon. Umar’s footprint in the lives of women, youths, and student...

Bashir Opaluwa Idris  The Speaker of Kogi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Aliyu Umar Yusuf, has emphasized the importance of continuous training and teamwork in enhancing effective service delivery within the legislature. The Speaker made this known in a message delivered at a one-day seminar organized for Legislative staff  at the Assembly Complex in Lokoja.  Represented by the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Comfort Ojoma Nwuchiola Egwaba, the Speaker said training, retraining, and continuous learning are essential tools for improving efficiency and building a high-performing workforce. “In any society, if the team is strong, the society will be strong. When individuals work together and manage their skills effectively, success is inevitable." Hon. Yusuf urged staff members to apply knowledge gained from the seminar in their respective duties, noting that practical implementation is key to achieving institutional growth. In a remark, a former Deputy C...

***Ayetoro Gbede Community Declares Solidarity with INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan From Homeland Pride to National Duty—A Community’s Faith in Electoral Integrity Ayetoro Gbede, Kogi State  In a powerful show of unity and civic pride, the people of Ayetoro Gbede in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State on Monday, April 13, 2026, staged a grand solidarity rally in honor of their illustrious son, Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, following his appointment as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The rally, which drew community leaders, youth groups, elders, and supporters from across the region, was marked by resounding endorsements of Professor Amupitan’s leadership and a collective commitment to democratic ideals in Nigeria. Delivering a speech on behalf of the community, representatives described the appointment as both historic and well-deserved, emphasizing their unwavering support for the new INEC Chairman. They acknowledged the ...

By Engr. Amb. Tosin Owonifari Ekiti State stands at a critical juncture in its political evolution. As activities intensify ahead of party primaries and the emergence of candidates, a fundamental question must be addressed by both leaders and citizens. Are we strengthening a system built on performance and accountability, or are we perpetuating a pattern shaped by loyalty, inducement, and short term political advantage The Paradox of the Fountain of Knowledge Ekiti is widely known as the Fountain of Knowledge. This identity was built on a foundation of education, intellectual strength, and principled engagement. However, there is a growing disconnect between this historic identity and present day reality. Our intellectual capital is leaking. Many of our talented young graduates remain underutilised. Instead of being empowered to drive innovation and development, some are drawn into political structures in ways that do not reflect their capacity or potential. A state that sh...