…..Gabriel Joshua Ojochegbe calls for unity, praises former governor’s leadership, urges youths to rally behind APC ahead of Kogi elections.
The National Coordinator of the Alliance of North Central Youth (ANCY), Hon. Gabriel Joshua Ojochegbe, has called on the people of Kogi State to recognize and appreciate the leadership contributions of the immediate past Governor of the state, Yahaya Adoza Bello, while urging political stakeholders to promote unity over ethnic sentiments.
Ojochegbe made the appeal in a statement against the backdrop of ongoing political conversations in Kogi State, insisting that no former Igala governor was prevented from contesting or serving in the Senate.
https://globaltimesnigeria.com/2026/07/28/ancy-locally-made-product-tinubu-renewed-hope-2027/
According to him, Nigeria’s democratic system guarantees every qualified citizen the constitutional right to seek elective office, subject to the decisions of political parties and the mandate of the electorate.
“Nobody stopped the Igala governors from Kogi State from going to the Senate. Our democracy gives every qualified Nigerian the opportunity to contest for elective positions. It is ultimately the people and political parties that determine who emerges,” he said.
The ANCY National Coordinator cautioned against narratives capable of fueling ethnic divisions, stressing that Kogites should instead focus on strengthening unity, peaceful coexistence, and consolidating democratic gains achieved over the years.
Five Reasons Bello Deserves Appreciation
Ojochegbe outlined what he described as five major reasons the former governor deserves recognition for his contributions to the state.
He said Bello broke long-standing political barriers by demonstrating that public service does not necessarily end after leaving office, adding that former governors remain eligible to continue serving the country through other democratic platforms, including the Senate.
He also commended the Bello administration for prioritizing youth inclusion in governance, noting that many young people were appointed into leadership positions across ministries, departments, agencies, and political offices.
According to him, the administration’s inclusive leadership style created opportunities for women and young professionals to participate actively in governance, inspiring a new generation of political leaders.
Ojochegbe further credited the former governor with enhancing Kogi State’s national profile through investments in infrastructure, security initiatives, institutional reforms, and active participation in national affairs.
He added that Bello’s government pursued policies aimed at improving governance, expanding infrastructure, encouraging investment, and creating opportunities for economic growth, while acknowledging that opinions may differ regarding the outcomes of those initiatives.
Call for Unity Ahead of Elections
The ANCY National Coordinator called on political stakeholders, youth groups, traditional institutions, and community leaders to place the overall interest of Kogi State above ethnic and partisan considerations.
He emphasized that sustainable development can only be achieved through unity, mutual respect, peaceful political engagement, and unwavering support for democratic institutions.
Ojochegbe also urged young people across the state to unite in support of the All Progressives Congress> ahead of the forthcoming elections in Kogi State.
“The future of Kogi State depends on our ability to build bridges across ethnic, religious, and political lines. Let us celebrate progress where we see it, learn from our challenges, and remain committed to a united, peaceful, and prosperous Kogi State,” he stated.
He appeal to all Kogites to embrace peaceful politics and work collectively towards the continued development of the state.