By Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab
A group under the banner of Kogi State APC Elders Assembly has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, to urgently intervene in the affairs of the party in Kogi State.
The elders alleged that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo is encouraging division and disaffection within the party, warning that such actions could affect the APCâs chances in future elections.
In a statement, the group claimed that some zonal leaders from Kogi West were on their way to Abuja to stage what they described as a failed vote of no confidence against the Senator representing Kogi West Senatorial District, Senator Sunday Steve Karimi.
They dismissed the planned action as a sponsored political drama, insisting that Senator Karimi remains popular and respected among party members and constituents in the district.
According to them, the senator has continued to deliver quality representation through constituency projects, empowerment programmes and active participation in legislative matters affecting Kogi West and the nation at large.
The elders further alleged that the state government has continued to interfere in party matters, citing the recent APC congresses in the state, which they said excluded critical stakeholders and party leaders.
According to the statement, names of party officials were allegedly handpicked without proper consultation, creating dissatisfaction and unrest among members across the three senatorial districts.
They maintained that such a process undermines internal democracy and weakens the confidence of loyal party members who have laboured for the growth of the APC since its formation.
The group also expressed concern over what it described as growing silence and frustration in Kogi East, as well as feelings of exclusion in many local government areas outside Kogi Central.
They claimed that many members in the eastern flank of the state now feel disconnected from the current leadership structure of the party, a development they described as dangerous if not urgently addressed.
The elders further stated that while Okene Local Government appears to enjoy concentration of appointments and influence, many other areas feel neglected and politically sidelined.
They warned that continued marginalisation and internal crisis could force many party members and political actors to seek alternative platforms ahead of the next general elections.
The group urged President Tinubu and the APC national leadership to reconcile aggrieved members, restore fairness, and ensure that all tendencies within the party are carried along.
They stressed that unity, inclusion and justice remain the only path for the APC to retain strength and dominance in Kogi State.
The statement was signed by Dr Hezekiah Ikusemoro for Kogi West, Alhaji Adaviriku Omeiza for Kogi Central, and Barrister David Ameh for Kogi East.
