In a strongly worded statement issued by the Kogi State APC Elders Assembly, the group alleged that the state governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, is fostering disunity and disaffection among party members, a development they warned could undermine the party’s chances in the forthcoming general elections.
The elders specifically condemned a planned move by some APC leaders in Kogi West, reportedly en route to Abuja, to stage what they termed a “rehash” of a failed vote of no confidence against the senator representing the district, Sunday Steve Karimi.
They described the move as a “sponsored charade” that does not reflect the “widespread respect and admiration” the lawmaker enjoys among his constituents, warning that such actions amount to waste of public resources and further weaken the party’s structure in the state.
The statement recalled a similar incident on March 12, 2026, when some party chairmen in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area allegedly passed a vote of no confidence on Senator Karimi, an action the elders said was widely rejected by party stakeholders across Kogi West.
According to the elders, the internal crisis has been exacerbated by the conduct of recent party congresses in the state, which they claimed excluded key stakeholders. They alleged that party positions were filled without due consultation, resulting in widespread dissatisfaction and unrest within party ranks.
They further warned of growing disillusionment across the state, particularly in Kogi East, where they said silence among party members signals a dangerous level of disengagement. The elders also pointed to what they described as perceived favoritism toward certain areas in Kogi Central, noting that many local government areas feel marginalized and excluded from party affairs.
The group cautioned that ongoing grievances could trigger political realignments, as aggrieved members may seek alternative platforms ahead of the elections.
The statement was signed by prominent members of the Kogi State APC Elders Assembly, including Dr. Hezekiah Ikusemoro (Kogi West), Alhaji Adaviriku Omeiza (Kogi Central), and Barrister David Ameh (Kogi East).