Kogi gov warns youths against electoral violence

Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Ododo, has cautioned youths against allowing politicians to use them as instruments of electoral violence, insisting that no political ambition is worth the loss of human lives.

The governor gave the warning at the Government House in Lokoja while receiving a delegation from Lokoja Ward A, led by Hon. Nda Aaron, during a courtesy and appreciation visit.

Ododo urged young people across the state to reject any offer to collect weapons for political purposes, stressing that they should not put their lives and future at risk for the interests of politicians.

“If I ask you to come and collect guns to use for election, tell me to give them to my biological children,” the governor declared.

He warned youths against being lured into violence with money or other material inducements, urging them to resist any attempt to involve them in activities capable of disrupting peace and security in the state.

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According to him, young people should prioritise their future, pursue legitimate opportunities and contribute positively to the development of their communities rather than engage in political conflicts.

Drawing from his personal experience, the governor encouraged the youths to remain ambitious and believe in their ability to attain positions of leadership, regardless of their backgrounds.

“If I can stand here, you can even go higher than myself. Most of you are lucky to have been born in the city, while I was born in a very small, remote village. With God supporting you, you can achieve even greater things,” he said.

Ododo further questioned the justification for taking another person’s life over political disagreements, urging young people to embrace peaceful participation in the democratic process.

“What are we looking for that will make us kill our fellow human beings? How can you take the life of another person?” he asked.

The governor’s message centred on the need for youths to shun political violence, protect their future and promote peaceful coexistence as the state prepares for future electoral activities.