A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State, Princess Oladunni Odu, has expressed confidence in Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the party’s candidate, emerging victorious in the Nov. 16 governorship poll in the state.

Odu, the first female Secretary to the State Government (SSG), who served under late Gov. Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Okitipupa on Tuesday, that the electorate in the state would vote Progressives to stay with the ruling party at the centre.

The APC chieftain said that the party’s women forum in the state was ready for the governoship poll and had mobilised support for the ruling party ahead of Saturday’s poll.

” In Nigeria of today, the women folk play active role in participatory democracy and as strong supporters in the home front.

“The state APC women have canvassed in their homes and neighbourhood for the party, because women population at anytime is always more.

“So, the backing of the women will go a long way to shore up the victory margin of APC at the off cycle governorship election,” Odu said.

The APC chieftain said that there was no chance for any of the other oposition parties to claim victory, stressing “none of them has the leverage of APC”.

She said that in the election in Edo, APC stepped up its game and ousted the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in power.

Odu said that APC had established a formidable foundation for the economic development and political stability of the state under late Gov. Akeredolu, adding “his successor, Aiyedatiwa, has followed in the same stride.”

She appealed to the electorate in the state to turn out enmasse and cast their votes for APC in Saturday’s election in order for the government to consolidate on its programmes and the progress made in the state.

Gov. Hyacinth Alia of Benue has swore in the 23 newly elected local government chairmen in the state. Alia, during the ceremony on Monday in Makurdi, tasked the new council chairmen with accountability and transparency. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Benue State Independent Electoral Commission (BSIEC) on Sunday declared the results of local government elections held on Saturday. The results indicated that the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidates won all 23 chairmanship and 276 councillorship seats. The governor urged them to be responsible, work for the people, and be mindful of all they do, stating that granting autonomy to the LG has its consequences. He said no tier of government works in isolation and advised them to collaborate with the state and federal governments for effective service delivery. Alia charged them to work diligently, provide leadership, and uphold the highest standards of governance in their respective councils. The governor further described the APC as serious and urged them not to disappoint the electorates who voted massively for their victories. Alia advised the new council chiefs to focus on bringing democratic deliverables to the people and to always remain in their respective areas of assignments. “This event marks a significant movement in the life and future of LG administration in Benue, especially as it concerns people at the grassroots who came out in their numbers on Saturday overwhelmingly to choose you at the polls. “Be reminded that leadership is about service and sacrifice and not personal glory. “I urged you to always collaborate with us at the state level in order to implement policies and programmes that benefit our rural communities,” he said. Speaking on behalf of the chairmen, Mr Dennis Guda, Chairman, Vandiekya LG, promised to deliver dividends of democracy to the people. Guda said they would also be loyal to the APC, uphold its constitution, and collaborate with the state government to succeed.

Gov. Abba Yusuf of Kano State has just been honoured with the ‘Best Governor Award’ by the African Trust Magazine for his outstanding dedication to women and youth development in the state.

A statement issued by his spokesperson, Sunusi Bature, on Friday in Kano said the award was presented by the publisher of the magazine, Prince Isaac Adekunle.

Praising Yusuf for his commitment to grassroots empowerment, he highlighted his focus on ensuring that the benefits of democracy were felt across all levels of the society.

According to Adekunle, this is particularly to Kano’s most vulnerable populations.

“This recognition is a testament to his tireless efforts in transforming Kano State into a beacon of progress and unity.

“Under the leadership of Gov. Yusuf, the state has witnessed a transformational approach to governance, with women and youth at the forefront of development initiatives,” he said.

Adekunle said that Yusuf administration’s unwavering focus on these key groups has made a significant impact, offering real value to the people at the grassroots level.

In response to the award, Yusuf reaffirmed his dedication to fulfilling his promises to the people of Kano, stressing the importance of governance that directly benefits the masses.

“I am truly honoured by this recognition, and it only strengthens my resolve to continue working tirelessly for the people of Kano State,” Yusuf said.

According to him his administration remains committed to improving the lives of all citizens, particularly through programmes that prioritise women and youth empowerment.

He commended the magazine for the recognition, calling it a testament to the collective efforts of his administration to foster progress and development in the state.

Yusuf said, “This award is yet another reflection of my leadership as my focus on inclusive governance continues to earn me widespread praise both locally and internationally.”