The All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial primaries in Kogi State were marked by a mix of controversy, protests, and disputed outcomes, even as former Governor Yahaya Bello and other aspirants secured victories in their respective districts.
In Kogi East, incumbent Senator Jibrin Isah (Echocho) strongly rejected the conduct of the election, alleging that voting materials and officials were missing in several wards, including his own. He claimed the process lacked credibility and insisted that results were pre-determined before the exercise began. The senator further accused party officials of bias and vowed to challenge what he described as an unfair process.
In Kogi West, another aspirant, Ustaz Abubakar Ola, also raised concerns, alleging intimidation of his supporters and disruptions at polling centres where he claimed to have strong backing.
Despite the disputes, the primaries recorded high turnout across the state. In Kogi Central, supporters of former Governor Yahaya Bello participated actively in the exercise, which was conducted under tight security. Bello described the process as peaceful and transparent, commending party officials for adherence to guidelines.
Kogi State Governor Ahmed Ododo also took part in the exercise at his ward in Okene Local Government Area, describing the process as orderly and reflective of internal democracy within the APC.
The primaries highlighted a blend of electoral tension and internal party competition across the state, with both allegations of irregularities and claims of successful participation shaping the outcome narrative.
