The Kogi chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association (MACBAN) on Saturday declared its support for Usman Ododo, the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), for the November 11 poll.

Umar Damina, the state MACBAN chairman, stated this when he led hundreds of Fulani herders from the 21 local government areas of the state on a visit to Governor Yahaya Bello at the Government House, Lokoja.

Mr Damina commended Mr Bello for his numerous achievements in the state.

He said the association decided to endorse the APC candidate because of the governor’s unwavering commitment to the well-being of its members and his efforts in providing security for residents of the state.

“It’s our belief that the APC candidate, Ododo, will continue to build upon the solid foundation you have laid when elected as governor of Kogi on November 11, ” he said.

Responding, Mr Bello appreciated the association for endorsing APC and Mr Ododo. 

The governor, touched by the display of unity and optimism, affirmed his administration’s stance on discrimination against the Fulani people, particularly those engaged in lawful businesses within and outside the state. 

“This administration appreciates MACBAN’s valuable contributions in sharing information and gathering intelligence, which had aided conventional security forces in identifying and eliminating criminal elements among the Fulani community in the state.

“I’m indeed convinced that the Fulani people, known for their unwavering commitment to their word, will undoubtedly throw their support behind APC during the November 11 polls, ” he said.

Mr Bello stated his administration’s resolve against discrimination against any tribe in the state.

He, however, urged the Fulani people residing there to remain vigilant and help identify criminal elements among them, thereby contributing to the overall peace and safety of all residents. 

(NAN)