By Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kogi State is facing growing internal tension following allegations that its State Chairman, Hon. Abdullahi Bello, is positioning for a third term in office despite concerns over constitutional limits.
A group known as APC Concerned Youths in Kogi State has raised objections to any move that would allow Bello to continue in office, arguing that his tenure—reportedly spanning over nine years—exceeds the maximum eight-year limit stipulated for party executives.
The controversy, according to party insiders, dates back to the political developments that followed the death of former governorship candidate, Abubakar Audu.
Bello’s emergence during that period, critics claim, altered the party’s leadership structure and cut short the tenure of the then state chairman, Hadi Ametuo.
In a statement circulated among party stakeholders, the concerned youths described any attempt to secure a third term for Bello—whether through affirmation or other internal arrangements—as unconstitutional and capable of deepening divisions within the party.
They emphasized that the issue is not rooted in zoning considerations but in strict adherence to the party’s constitution and democratic principles.
According to them, affirmation processes are traditionally reserved for officials still within their constitutionally recognized tenure.
The group warned that failure to address the matter transparently could weaken party unity ahead of the 2027 general elections, especially as opposition parties are reportedly intensifying grassroots mobilization in the state.
As of press time, the Kogi State chapter of the APC has not issued an official response to the allegations.
Political observers note that the outcome of the dispute may significantly shape the party’s internal stability and electoral prospects in the coming years.
