Despite the ban placed on jubilation after the Supreme Court judgement which validated Governor Yahaya Bello’s election was passed, the Governor has been given a grand welcome to Lokoja, the state capital.
In what could be described as a triumphant entry, a crowd of supporters followed the Governor from the Jamata bridge as everyone tried to catch a glimpse of him.
The crowd gradually built up into a large procession, causing heavy traffic jam for several hours.
The Governor had to alight from the vehicle and walked down to the government house, where a lot of other people had been waiting to receive him.
He finally arrived at the main entrance of the Luggard House, after which he gave his speech.
He was received by the State Deputy Governor, Simon Achuba, and his wife, following his victory at the Supreme Court.
A Better Kogi
Governor Bello, while addressing the crowd of supporters, called on the people to give him maximum support and cooperation to enable him develop the state and provide the dividends of democracy.
He said that he would have no cause not to perform, now that the apex court has upheld his election as the substantive governor of Kogi state.
While addressing past issues, the Governor said that the state had been in darkness for too long but that in a short while, the darkness would turn to light.
Furthermore, he called on the youths and women in the state to support his government, promising to empower them.
He also urged civil servants to be patient with him, stating that the ongoing screening exercise in the state would soon be completed.
With the Supreme Court judgement signifying the end of the litigation regarding the leadership of the state, the people of Kogi state have expressed hope that their expectations would be met as soon as possible.