By Stephen Adeleye
Okene (Kogi), May 23, 2026 (NAN) Gov. Ahmed Ododo of Kogi has commended the All Progressives Congress (APC) for conducting what he described as a peaceful, transparent, and credible presidential primary election.
Ododo made the remarks on Saturday, shortly after casting his vote at his polling unit in Odenku, Upogoro Ward, Okene Local Government Area of the state.
The governor arrived at the unit in the company of party supporters and participated alongside other APC members in the state-wide exercise.
Speaking to journalists after voting, Ododo said the transparent process reflected the party’s commitment to internal democracy.
He thanked party members for turning out in large numbers, noting that the turnout was a clear demonstration of democratic participation and loyalty to the APC.
“I want to sincerely thank our party card-carrying members for coming out en masse to participate in this primary election.
“This level of participation demonstrates the strength of our democracy and the commitment of our people to the progress of the APC,” Ododo said.
The governor attributed the orderly conduct of the primaries to President Bola Tinubu’s adherence to democratic principles and due process.
He said the president’s decision to subject himself to the same process as other aspirants set a strong example for leadership and accountability within the party.
“Mr President is a firm believer in democracy, and what we are witnessing here today and across the state is a free, fair, transparent, and credible process.
“He has always demonstrated his commitment to democratic ideals.
“As you can see, he submitted himself to this process just like every other aspirant.
“That is leadership, and we cannot thank him enough for laying this template and building a very solid foundation for younger generations to emulate,” Ododo stated.
The governor stressed that sustaining the culture of internal democracy remained critical to strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
He urged party stakeholders to maintain the same level of enthusiasm and unity ahead of the general elections.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the APC presidential primaries across Kogi witnessed active participation by delegates and party members.
Security personnel and electoral officials were also on ground to monitor the exercise and ensure compliance with electoral guidelines. (NAN)