APC Crisis Brews in Kabba/Bunu as Stakeholders Petition Gov. Ododo Over Alleged Plot to Impose Candidate

By Wilson Macaulay

A storm is quietly gathering within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kogi State as concerned stakeholders from Kabba/Bunu State Constituency have issued a strongly worded open letter to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, raising alarm over what they describe as a dangerous drift from democratic norms ahead of the party’s primary election.

In the letter, jointly signed by concerned party members and grassroots leaders, the stakeholders accused the Chairman of Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of deliberately refusing to convene a crucial stakeholders’ meeting—an action they warn could destabilize the party’s internal cohesion and credibility in the constituency.

The petitioners expressed “deep concern” over what they termed a calculated silence and lack of consultation, noting that the development has already triggered tension, suspicion, and uncertainty among aspirants, party loyalists, and grassroots mobilizers.

According to them, stakeholder engagement remains a cornerstone of democratic politics, particularly within a party structure that prides itself on inclusiveness and internal democracy. They argued that bypassing such a process not only undermines consensus-building but also threatens the unity that is critical for electoral success.

“The refusal to convene a stakeholders’ meeting at this critical time raises serious questions,” the letter stated, warning that the situation suggests an attempt by the Local Government Chairman and a “select inner circle” to impose a preferred candidate on the constituency without due consultation or transparency.

The stakeholders cautioned that any move perceived as imposition could have far-reaching consequences, including eroding trust among party members, weakening grassroots support, and potentially triggering internal divisions that may cost the party dearly at the polls.

They further stressed that such actions run contrary to the core ideals of the APC, which they described as being founded on fairness, equity, and participatory governance.

“This approach does not reflect the values and democratic ethos of our great party,” the statement emphasized. “Those pursuing this path do not appear committed to the success of the party but rather to narrow interests that could ultimately undermine our collective strength.”

The group warned that failure to address the situation promptly could lead to disaffection among loyal members and jeopardize the party’s long-standing dominance in Kabba/Bunu, a constituency widely regarded as a stronghold of the APC.

In a direct appeal, the stakeholders called on Governor Ododo to intervene decisively to prevent what they described as an avoidable political crisis.

They urged the governor to immediately direct the convening of an all-inclusive stakeholders’ meeting involving aspirants, party elders, and grassroots leaders, as well as to ensure that the forthcoming primary election is conducted in a transparent, free, and fair manner.

Additionally, they appealed for firm measures to prevent any form of candidate imposition, insisting that only a credible and inclusive process can guarantee unity and electoral victory.

Political observers note that the unfolding situation in Kabba/Bunu reflects a broader challenge within party politics, where internal democracy is often tested in the lead-up to primaries. Analysts warn that how the APC leadership handles the matter could significantly influence party cohesion not only in the constituency but across Kogi State.

Despite the rising tension, the stakeholders expressed confidence in Governor Ododo’s leadership, describing him as a leader with a strong sense of justice and responsibility. They urged him to act swiftly to restore confidence and reinforce the principles of fairness and due process.

“Your timely intervention will not only douse the tension but also reaffirm your commitment to democratic ideals,” the letter concluded.

As the countdown to the primaries intensifies, all eyes are now on the Kogi State Government House, where the governor’s next move is expected to determine whether the party emerges united—or further divided—in one of its key constituencies.