A top young opposition leader in Kogi State, Mallam Bello Muhammed, popularly known as MBM across the state’s political landscape has formerly joined the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

He was presented with a party flag by the Director General of Kogi State Government House Administration, Dr Umar Shuaibu Oricha, at a colorful ceremony before the party’s governorship campaign in Kogi Central Senatorial District held at Okene on Saturday.

He defected with his supporters, who were represented at the special flag presentation event by leaders of his political group, the Team MBM Political Movement (Team MBM).

The leaders were drawn from the group’s structure in the three Senatorial Districts of the state, with representatives from each local government area of the state.

MBM, who is an architect by training, has in opposition in the state for about a decade and half and the defection to APC is the formal journey into the group’s support for the governorship candidate of the APC in the state, Hon. Usman Ododo and his running mate.

According to him, “Today was a momentous occasion for our support group, Team MBM as we stand united in our unwavering dedication to our cause. The euphoria witnessed at the event today shows that we are like a community that shares a common vision, values, and a burning passion for the change we seek in our dear state”, Mallam Bello Muhammed said in a chat with newsmen in Okene.

He further observed that “We have come a long way in our journey, and it is with great honour and humility that today we receive this flag from the All Progressive Congress (APC). This flag is more than a symbol; it represents our shared commitment to our cause and the recognition of our tireless efforts.

“This flag signifies unity, collaboration, and determination.

“It is a reminder that, together, we are stronger than the sum of our individual efforts. It is a testament to our collective belief that positive change is possible, and it starts with our actions, our voices, and our unwavering commitment.

“As we proudly display this flag, let it serve as a beacon of hope and a call to action for everyone who shares our vision of Kogi Agenda.

“Let it remind us that our cause is greater than any one of us and that, by working together, we can achieve the change we so passionately advocate for”, he told reporters.

Appreciating Dr Oricha’s special love for him and all Kogi residents, Arc Bello said, “I want to express my gratitude to our party, APC for their support and recognition and the DG, Government House Administration, Dr. Umar Shuaibu Oricha for his pivotal role in making this a reality.

“We are not just receiving a flag today; we are receiving a vote of confidence in our dedication and our ability to be the change agents our community and our country need.

“Let us wear this flag with pride, but let us also remember that it is not just a symbol; it is a call to action. It is a reminder that we have the power to shape our future, and with unity, determination, and our shared values, we can accomplish great things”, he said.

In his appreciation for members of his across different opposition parties and aggrieved APC members who had pinched tents with different opposition parties in the state, Arc Bello said, “Thank you to each and every one of you who has contributed to our support group’s success. This flag is a testament to your hard work, dedication, and passion. Let us continue to stand together, work together, and make the change we seek a reality.

“Together, we can achieve our goals, and with this flag, we signify our commitment to the journey ahead; the journey of delivering the Ododo-Oyibo mandate come November 11, 2023.