By Yahaya Idris, Kogi
Thousands of supporters and well-wishers has thronged the palace of the Prime Minister of the Igala Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Yusuf Atama Ameadaji II, Achadu Oko Attah, as the All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial candidate for Kogi East, Chief Dr. Joseph Ameh Erico, paid a courtesy visit to the traditional ruler.
The visit attracted APC supporters, youths, women groups and community leaders, who gathered in large numbers to receive the Kogi East senatorial candidate.
The atmosphere at the palace was lively as supporters chanted slogans and expressed their support for Erico’s political ambition.
Speaking during the visit, Erico said he was committed to promoting economic development in Kogi East through the strategic development of the area’s mineral and natural resources.
He particularly identified the Ibaji oil and gas deposits in Idah Federal Constituency as an important economic asset capable of creating employment opportunities, attracting investment and stimulating economic activities if properly developed.
“I am fully committed to supporting every effort that will bring meaningful development to our people,” Erico said.
“The mineral resources in our land are God-given blessings. The Ibaji Oil and Gas project, in particular, has the capacity to create jobs, attract investment and stimulate economic growth across Kogi East and beyond.”
The APC candidate said his vision was to ensure that communities and residents benefit from the economic opportunities associated with the development of the resources in the district.
He said this could be achieved through strategic partnerships, investment opportunities and policies that encourage local participation.
Erico also pledged to work with traditional institutions, relevant government agencies and private investors to attract development projects and investments to Kogi East.
He stressed the importance of collaboration among stakeholders in creating an environment capable of supporting sustainable economic development.
Responding, Achadu Oko Attah commended Erico for the courtesy visit and urged political leaders to remain committed to initiatives that would improve the welfare and living conditions of ordinary citizens.
The traditional ruler emphasized the importance of peace, unity and purposeful leadership, noting that sustainable development requires an atmosphere of harmony and stability.
Achadu Oko Attah also expressed optimism that the natural resources available in the district could become significant drivers of economic prosperity if properly developed and managed.
The visit ended with prayers for peace in Kogi State, the strengthening of democratic institutions and continued development of the Igala Kingdom.
Supporters at the palace subsequently continued to cheer the APC candidate and expressed their support for his political aspiration.