It was a day of joy, celebration and renewed hope in Lokoja on Friday as Chief Samuel Bamidele Aro, winner of the recent Federal High Court, Abuja judgment on the Kogi West senatorial ticket, met with his supporters and promised meaningful development for the constituency.
The event, held at the Children Amusement Park, Lokoja, attracted a mammoth crowd of party members, supporters, youth groups, women leaders and well-wishers from the seven local government areas of Kogi West.
Aro arrived in company of top party leaders and government officials, including the State Security Adviser and leader of the party in Kogi West, Chief Commander Jerry Omodara (rtd), Commissioner for Solid Minerals, Engr. Bashir Abubakar Gegu, Hon. Phillip Orebiyi, Lokoja Council Chairman, Hon. Abdulrahman Hussaini, popularly known as Gentle, APC leader in Lokoja, Umar Imam, and other dignitaries.
The crowd erupted in jubilation as he stepped out, chanting solidarity songs and waving party flags.
Addressing the crowd, Aro promised inclusive leadership, assuring that he will carry everyone along irrespective of political differences.
“This victory is not for me alone, but for the entire people of Kogi West. I will be a Senator for all. There will be no winner, no vanquished,” he declared.
He thanked Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, Engr. Bashir Gegu, Commander Omodara and other stakeholders who stood by him during the legal battle, describing their support as a source of strength.
He promised to work with all aggrieved persons, stressing that unity is the only way the party can win the general election and deliver good governance.
Aro also assured the people of empowerment, education, healthcare, road infrastructure, youth employment and support for women and farmers if elected.
“My representation will be people-oriented and result-driven. I will work closely with the state government to bring dividends of democracy to the grassroots,” he said.
In his remarks, Commander Omodara Rtd on all APC members to support Aro, describing him as the constitutionally recognised senatorial candidate for Kogi West.
“The court has spoken. Hon. Sam Aro is our candidate. Let us all support him and move forward as one family,” Omodara said. He urged members to close ranks and forget past grievances ahead of the 2027 elections.
After the gathering, the crowd took to major streets of Lokoja in a carnival-like celebration, singing, dancing and displaying banners in support of Aro.
Observers said the celebration shows the readiness of Kogi West people to rally behind Aro ahead of the 2027 senatorial election.
