Kolawole Denies Defection Rumours, Reaffirms Loyalty To APC, Ododo

Former Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Prince Mathew Kolawole, has  dismissed rumours suggesting he is disloyal to the All Progressives Congress (APC),  and Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo.

Speaking on the speculation, Kolawole described himself as a committed and bona fide member of the APC, stressing that he remains grateful to the party for the opportunities it has provided him over the years.

According to him, his loyalty to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo remains unwavering, noting that he has no reason to betray leaders who have supported his political journey.

The former Speaker recalled that during his bid for the House of Representatives seat, former governor Yahaya Bello directed him to withdraw a court case related to the contest, a directive he complied with without hesitation.

He further revealed that ahead of the recent House of Representatives primaries, Bello again advised him to allow Architect Salman Idris to seek re-election for a second term, a request he also honoured in the interest of party unity.

Kolawole attributed the rumours surrounding his alleged disloyalty to what he described as the handiwork of mischief makers and enemies of the APC, insisting that such claims were aimed at creating division within the ruling party.

To further demonstrate his commitment to the APC, Kolawole announced plans to organise a political programme in Kabba in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election campaign.

He said the event would send a clear signal that he remains fully committed to the party and its leadership.

He also congratulated President Tinubu on emerging victorious in the recently concluded presidential primaries and commended Governor Ododo for the APC’s impressive performance during the senatorial and House of Representatives primaries in Kogi State.

On the issue of security, the former lawmaker emphasized that the government alone cannot effectively combat criminal activities.

He urged citizens to support security agencies with credible intelligence and called on traditional rulers to exercise caution when allocating land to strangers, particularly individuals whose identities cannot be properly verified.

Kolawole also sympathized with victims of kidnapping and insecurity in Kogi West, expressing hope that ongoing efforts by security agencies would restore peace to affected communities.

He concluded by expressing confidence in President Tinubu’s chances of securing a second term in office, arguing that governors across the country would work to ensure victory for the ruling party in their respective states.