A group under the aegis of the APC Aggrieved Youths Movement has called for fairness, equity and inclusiveness in the selection of the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the 2027 Kogi Central Senatorial election, arguing that Okehi Local Government Area deserves consideration for the seat.
In a statement signed by its chairman, Comrade Ihiovi Mukhtar, the group said political stakeholders should ensure that the process of choosing the party’s candidate remains transparent and consistent with established party guidelines.
The group noted that discussions surrounding the future of Kogi Central have generated widespread interest, particularly amid the perceived influence of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, in the district’s political affairs.
According to the statement, concerns have been raised by some stakeholders over reports that certain aspirants who did not participate in the party’s screening process may still be seeking to secure the party’s ticket.
Mukhtar stressed that the APC must uphold internal democracy and provide a level playing field for all aspirants interested in contesting the senatorial seat.
The group also argued that a review of the district’s political history shows an imbalance in the distribution of senatorial representation among the three local government areas that make up Kogi Central.
According to the statement, Okene Local Government Area has produced senators for seven terms since the return to democratic rule, while Adavi has produced senators for three terms and Okehi only once.
“This reality underscores the need for fairness, equity and inclusiveness in the distribution of political opportunities across Ebiraland. Every local government area deserves a genuine sense of belonging and adequate representation in the political leadership of the district,” the statement said.
The group maintained that Okehi, which currently produces the district’s representative in the Senate, deserves serious consideration again given what it described as its strategic contribution to the development of Ebiraland and its comparatively limited opportunity to occupy the seat.
“As conversations about the 2027 senatorial election continue, many stakeholders believe that Okehi Local Government Area deserves serious consideration once again, given its strategic role in the development of Ebiraland and its limited opportunity to occupy the senatorial seat compared to other local governments,” the statement added.
The group further urged political leaders and party stakeholders to prioritise unity and collective progress in determining the future leadership of Kogi Central.
It stated that the district needs a representative capable of uniting all communities and advancing the interests of the people irrespective of political, clan or local government affiliations.
“In the spirit of justice, fairness and equity, the question remains: Should Okehi not be given another opportunity to continue its representation of Kogi Central?” the statement concluded.
