PRESS RELEASE
Good Governance must prevail: A call for Responsibility, Vision and Democratic Maturity in Kogi State.
The Kogi State Coalition of Political Associations for Good Governance (KSC-PAGG) has observed with keen interest, the unfolding political events in the State particularly as preparations for 2027 elections hots up.
The activities of the ruling Political Party in the State and the new coalition that produced the Africa Democratic Congress (ADC), as well as other political parties alike deserve to be mentioned and sue for good governance.
The Associations which are made up of some of the deregistered political parties as stakeholders are concerned with assurances of good governance by all actors so that the citizens of the State will continue to enjoy democracy dividends.
LSC-PAGG is thus committed to democratic values, accountable leadership and inclusive governance. As stakeholders, we believe it is our duty to remind political actors, whether in power or in opposition, that the ultimate priority of governance in the State must remain the wellbeing of the people and the progress of our dear State.
We acknowledge the efforts of Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, the Executive Governor of Kogi State in sustaining democratic governance since assuming leadership. However, we must also express the concerns of many citizens regarding reoccurring needs for improvement in the areas of security, public infrastructure especially water supply, job creation which thus far received little attention, education and transparency in governance.
We urge the government to listen more attentively to the voices of the people and take urgent steps to address these issues through sincere dialogue and result driven policies.
We further recognise the recent coalition that culminated in the adoption of Africa Democratic Congress ( ADC) as a veritable opposition which is considered as legitimate expression of democratic competition. This is because the formation of such a coalition presents an opportunity for fresh ideas and re-engagement of citizens in the political process. However, we urge the coalition to rise above rhetorics and present a clear actionable, and people oriented agenda that goes beyond the pursuit of power. This is time for visionary leadership across all divides. We therefore call on —-
(i) The ruling party to re-evaluate its policies and governance outcomes in light of the people’s desire for improvement in governance.
(ii) The emerging coalition and other political parties should demonstrate seriousness, unity of purpose and respect for democratic norms.
(iii) All citizens to remain politically aware, peaceful and engage in positively shaping the future of Kogi State.
(iv) INEC is urged to urgently review its illegality of deregistering legitimate and forward looking political parties and ensure a level playing field as we approach the 2027 political cycle.
We reiterate the resolve of members of the Association to continue to sue for good governance. We are also ready to partner with credible actors and place our structures in all the 21 LGAs of the with reliable partner at their disposal so as to attain the laudable desire for a just , prosperous and well governed State.
We conclude this Press Release by drawing attention to the fact that our democracy can only thrive when constructive criticism, responsive governance and genuine competition of ideas are upheld. Now, and Now is time for leadership that listens, serves and delivered.
Alhaji Mohammed Onipe Aliyu,
Chairman.
Elder Ephraim Medupin,
Secretary
