The Igede ethnic group from Benue state has elected, John Francis Ogbodo as the new traditional head for the community in Ekiti.
During the election conducted in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, John Francis Ogbodo emerged as the new Ad’Igede 1 of Ekiti state with 19 votes to defeat his opponent, Ojo Agwu who scored 12 votes.
The exercise was witnessed and supervised by the leadership and stakeholders of the community across the six South West states.
Speaking, the chairman of the electoral committee, Chief Alex Otumala described the election as credible and in fulfilment of the Igede traditional council agreement.
He added that the members of the community have decided on who leads them in the state, adding that the new leadership is expected to galvanize all members towards a peaceful coexistence.
Otumala expressed optimism in the capacity of the new traditional head, Ogbodo to unite members and ensure their welfare and well-being in Ekiti state.
On his part, the secretary of the committee, Chief Godwin Oga-ede said the leadership vacuum for Igede people in the last few years in the state has significantly affected their integration into activities in Ekiti State.
While describing the people of Igede as a peaceful loving ethnic group, he explained that the new traditional leadership would foster unity and harmonious relationships with the host stakeholders.
Delivering his acceptance speech, the new Ad’Igede 1 of Ekiti, Ogbodo commended his people for the confidence reposed in him with their votes, promising not to disappoint them.
He assured South West stakeholders that members of the community in the state would be brought together under one accord towards having peaceful engagement in Ekiti.
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