Chief Richard Asaje, an elder statesman from Kogi West Senatorial District, has defended Governor Usman Ahmed Ododo, asserting that the governor’s administration is neither self-serving nor harmful to good governance and democracy.
Speaking at an interactive session with political pundits at Liberty Hotels, Lokoja, Chief Asaje explained that Governor Ododo does not promote private interests, emphasizing that every government has an unofficial “think-tank” of trusted advisors.
According to Asaje, the governor’s cabal is closely connected to the people, highly intelligent, and focused on the welfare of Kogi State. “Every government has cabals; they are the individuals closest to the President or Governor and who influence key decisions. Problems only arise when such groups act independently of the leader,” he said.
He added that Governor Ododo maintains a small, trusted “kitchen cabinet,” consulted freely on major decisions. These groups are crucial in managing political and economic structures, influencing appointments, party nominations, and policy directions, and ensuring continuity in governance.
Asaje noted that Ododo’s administration prioritizes merit, discipline, and initiative over favoritism, which distinguishes it from traditional cabal politics.
Recalling some of Ododo’s early achievements, Chief Asaje highlighted the prompt payment of civil servants’ and pensioners’ salaries, describing it as a critical move that addressed long-standing impediments to progress in the state.
He further described the governor as a self-proclaimed democratic socialist and a staunch advocate of a welfare state, committed to public education and socio-economic transformation for all citizens.
“Governor Ododo’s ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ is turning obstacles into opportunities,” Asaje concluded, praising the governor as a bold, visionary leader determined to transform Kogi State.
Signed:
Secretary, Like Minds Alliance Pressure Group
