Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo has ruled out the imposition of candidates in the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries, unveiling a consultative framework anchored on consensus, dialogue, and party unity ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Addressing aspirants and stakeholders across the three senatorial districts in a series of high-level engagements in Lokoja, Governor Ododo said the party’s primary elections would be carefully guided to ensure fairness, credibility, and cohesion without undermining internal democracy.
He stressed that while no individual or group would have candidates forced on them, the party would provide strategic oversight to ensure the integrity of the process and promote collective ownership of its outcomes.
The Governor explained that
consultations with stakeholders from Kogi Central, West, and East senatorial districts are designed to deepen inclusion, encourage constructive engagement, and build consensus among political actors within the APC.
According to him, dialogue remains a critical tool for reducing tension, preventing conflict, and fostering a united political front, noting that a rancour-free environment is essential for sustainable development in the state.
Governor Ododo also called on aspirants to embrace the spirit of sportsmanship and rally behind whoever emerges as the party’s candidate, urging winners to be magnanimous in victory by accommodating others.
He commended party members across the state for their maturity and restraint, describing their conduct as a reflection of growing democratic culture within the APC.
The Governor further expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as exemplary leadership at the national level, which he said continues to strengthen democratic values and political stability.
Speaking on behalf of aspirants in Kogi Central, Sanni Muhammed, an aspirant for Adavi Constituency in the State House of Assembly praised the Governor’s transparent approach and pledged commitment to the outcome of the process.
In Kogi West, Salman Idris, the member representing Kabba/Bunu/Ijumu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives commended the inclusive consultations, noting that they have boosted confidence among stakeholders.
Similarly, in Kogi East, Abdullahi Ali, the member representing Omala/Olamaboro Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives disclosed that aspirants have unanimously endorsed the Governor’s peace-driven framework, agreeing to support both the eventual party candidates and the administrations of President Tinubu and Governor Ododo in the 2027 elections.
The consultations signal a strategic move by the APC leadership in Kogi State to consolidate unity and position the party for electoral success through a peaceful and inclusive primary election process.
