Engr. Oladeji Bamidele, the deputy governorship candidate of the African Action Alliance (AAC), has disassociated himself from his party’s plans to challenge the results of the recent Kogi State governorship election, which declared Alhaji Usman Ahmed Ododo as the winner.
Addressing the media in Lokoja during a press conference on Thursday, Engr. Oladeji Bamidele revealed his readiness to collaborate and align with the Governor-Elect, Alhaji Usman Ahmed Ododo, signalling a departure from his party’s stance.
He warmly congratulated Alhaji Ododo, praising his intellect and dedication to the advancement of Kogi State.
Oladeji highlighted Alhaji Ododo’s qualifications, including a PhD from the University of Lagos and prior financial experience as the former financial secretary for the local government under Governor Yahaya Bello.
He emphasized these credentials as essential for steering Kogi State toward progress and development.
In a call for post-election unity and reconciliation, Oladeji drew an analogy between politics and sports, stressing the importance of cooperation and healing despite the heated campaign.
“As we transition from a hard-fought campaign to the governance phase, I believe that healing must start immediately.
“Politics is like a football match: They shake hands before the match. Ruffle each other up during the match, but after the match, they shake hands and exchange jerseys,” he said.
He urged stakeholders and citizens alike to rally behind Alhaji Ododo’s administration, transcending religious, tribal, and political boundaries for the state’s greater good.
The deputy governorship candidate concluded by encouraging Alhaji Ododo to collaborate with individuals of goodwill, irrespective of their political backgrounds or voting affiliations.
