By Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab
A political group, the APC Youth Vanguard, Kabba-Bunu/Ijumu Federal Constituency, has warned former Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Prince Matthew Kolawole, that his chances of securing the APC ticket may be uncertain following Hon. Salman Idris’ recent defection to the ruling party.
In a statement signed by its chairman, Mr. Solomon David, and issued on Thursday, the group said Kolawole’s political prospects had dimmed further with Salman’s entry into the APC, describing the current representative as a “promise keeper” with strong grassroots support.
The warning comes just days after Kolawole formally declared his intention to contest for the House of Representatives seat for Kabba-Bunu/Ijumu Federal Constituency, a move the group said has intensified political discussions and shifted the constituency’s power dynamics.
The group recalled that in the last general election, Kolawole was the APC candidate while Salman contested under the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Although Salman won the election, he later defected to the APC, a decision that has continued to draw reactions across the constituency.
Highlighting Salman’s achievements, the APC Youth Vanguard said his tenure has been marked by constituency projects, youth empowerment initiatives, and consistent engagement with constituents—actions that have strengthened his credibility and popularity.
“Unlike Kolawole, who failed to make a significant impact during his time as Speaker, Salman has delivered on his promises and earned the confidence of the people,” David said.
The group also pledged to take Salman’s campaign from house-to-house across the constituency, vowing to mobilize grassroots support ahead of the party primaries.
Urging APC leaders in Kogi State to consider performance, loyalty, and grassroots support when selecting the party’s flagbearer, the APC Youth Vanguard insisted that Salman currently enjoys overwhelming backing from both party members and constituents.
Efforts to reach Kolawole for comment were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.
