Kogi LG Polls: Ododo Hails Voter Turnout, Commends KSIEC

Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has commended voter turnout in the state’s local government elections, while praising the Kogi State Independent Electoral Commission (KSIEC) for organising the exercise.

The elections, held on Saturday, October 17, 2026, cover chairmanship, vice-chairmanship and councillorship positions across the state’s 21 local government areas.

The polls are taking place across 239 electoral wards and 3,508 polling units, according to the commission’s notice of election.

Ododo’s commendation comes as eligible voters turn out to elect representatives responsible for grassroots administration and development. Local government councils play a key role in delivering basic services and addressing community-level needs.

The governor also commended KSIEC for its preparations and efforts to ensure an orderly voting process. The commission had previously announced measures including training electoral personnel, arranging the deployment of returning officers, securing sensitive election materials and expanding voter education.

KSIEC Chairman Mamman Nda Eri had said the commission was committed to conducting peaceful, transparent, credible and inclusive elections. He also called on political parties, candidates and voters to comply with electoral guidelines and avoid actions capable of disrupting the process.

Ahead of the polls, the commission engaged political parties, civil society organisations, traditional institutions and security agencies to promote cooperation and public confidence in the exercise.

The commission also pledged to improve participation among women, young people and persons with disabilities, stressing that eligible voters should not be excluded by intimidation or unnecessary barriers.

The election represents an important stage in the selection of local government leaders across Kogi State. The conduct of the exercise and the eventual results are expected to shape grassroots administration for the councils’ next tenure.

KSIEC is responsible for conducting and supervising local government elections in the state. The commission is expected to announce the official results after the completion of voting, collation and other required electoral procedures.