Who’s Ahmed Usman Ododo? All you need to know about Kogi’s governor-elect
After a rigorous electoral process, the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Ahmed Usman-Ododo of the All Progressive Congress (APC) the winner with over 446,237 votes, surpassing his closest rival Murtala Ajaka.
Despite initial low recognition, he triumphed over notable figures in the APC primaries and the subsequent state election. The party’s direct election method saw Usman-Ododo securing 78,704 votes, leading to the withdrawal of key contenders like Edward Onoja and Mohammed Asuku.
Officially Usman-Ododo was declared as the preferred candidate of outgoing Governor Yahaya Bello. Originating from the Ebira clan of Okene, Usman-Ododo’s academic background includes a degree in Accounting from Ahmadu Bello University.
His political influence grew during his tenure at the Internal Revenue Service under Yahaya Bello’s administration.
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Usman-Ododo’s diverse roles, including being a member of the Nigerian Youth Parliament, a Special Assistant to the Governor, and Chairman of the Kogi State Youth Council, reflect his commitment to public service.
Holding a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, a Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA), and being a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) further solidify his qualifications.
Notable opponents in the election included Senator Dino Melaye, Adejo Okeme, and Murtala Ajaka. Despite Melaye’s popularity, he did not exert the expected influence in the state, paving the way for Usman-Ododo’s significant electoral success.
