By Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab
The Kogi State Government has dismissed 25 political appointees allegedly loyal to Hon. James Abiodun Faleke and Senator Sunday Karimi, confirming long-running speculation about a looming purge within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
NationalWatch TV had earlier reported the likelihood of this shake-up in its recent edition, pointing to deepening tensions between Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s administration and the Faleke–Karimi political structure.
In a move considered highly unusual, the affected appointees were served their termination letters via WhatsApp, instead of through official physical channels.
Insiders say the method was designed to secretly and swiftly communicate the government’s decision, avoiding delays, resistance or early leaks.
A copy of one such letter, addressed to Kayode Olutayo John, former Special Adviser to the Governor on Urban Development, referenced S/GO/KGS/ADM/272/VOL.XX/1393 and dated 10th November 2025, directed the immediate termination of his appointment.
The letter was signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Folashade Arike Ayoade, who also instructed him to return all government property without delay.
One of the dismissed appointees, who requested anonymity, said the development did not surprise them.
According to him, “When the state government demanded the list of those to be appointed, both Faleke and Karimi were reluctant until they were pressurized. So this will not surprise them.”
The political rift, analysts say, has been simmering for months.
It reportedly intensified when stakeholders across the state began calling on Hon. Faleke to contest the governorship election, a move seen as threatening to some power centres.
At the same time, Senator Karimi’s persistent calls for power to shift to Kogi West further widened the divide and increased tensions within the ruling party.
Speaking further, some of the dismissed aides maintained that the mass sack will not change their allegiance.
In a message shared among their colleagues, they declared:
“We have earlier said we are not afraid of sack. We are still loyal to Hon. James Abiodun Faleke and Senator Sunday Karimi. No amount of intimidation will stop that.
We both own the state. They like it or not power will shift this time”
The strong reaction underscores the depth of political loyalty and the significance of the current power struggle within Kogi’s political landscape.
Political observers believe the mass removal is a calculated effort by Governor Ododo to consolidate authority, assert control over the government structure, and weaken rival political blocs ahead of future political realignments.
Reactions from the official camps of Hon. Faleke and Senator Karimi were still being awaited at the time of filing this report.
More details are expected as other affected appointees come forward.
