Kogi East APC Primary Sparks Rift as Senator Jibrin Isah Vows Political Showdown with Governor Ododo
Tension is brewing in Kogi State politics after Senator Jibrin Isah, who represents Kogi East Senatorial District, declared that “the battle line has been drawn” between him and Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo following the outcome of the APC senatorial primary election.
Isah, one of seven aspirants who contested the ticket, alleged widespread irregularities during the exercise, accusing alleged government-backed agents of interfering with electoral materials and undermining the credibility of the process.
Allegations of manipulation and missing electoral officials
The senator said the exercise was marred by serious lapses, including the absence of electoral officers and voting materials in several wards across the senatorial district.
He recounted that even in his own ward, where he went to cast his vote, no electoral officials were present, yet two votes were eventually recorded against him.
According to him, the situation was replicated in multiple communities, effectively disenfranchising party members who had prepared to participate in the primary.
Isah described the development as a deliberate attempt to frustrate his supporters and influence the outcome of the contest.
Political tension escalates
The lawmaker, visibly displeased with the process, suggested that his loyalty to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and his contributions to the party were being overlooked.
He also claimed that his developmental projects across Kogi East would ordinarily guarantee strong electoral support for the party, including for President Bola Tinubu.
However, he expressed shock that he had been treated unfairly despite what he described as his commitment to the party and the state government.
Rift with Governor Ododo deepens
In a further escalation of the dispute, Senator Isah alleged that Governor Ododo turned against him based on speculation that he might contest the governorship seat in the future.
He claimed the governor acted on political fears rather than party unity, warning that the fallout had now opened a new chapter in their relationship.
“With the latest development, I will now contest for the governorship position against Governor Ododo when the time comes,” he said.
Call for party intervention
The senator urged the APC national leadership to urgently investigate the alleged irregularities, including claims of hijacked electoral materials, and ensure fairness in the party’s internal democratic processes.
He stressed that restoring confidence in the system was necessary to prevent further division within the party ahead of future elections.
