Senator Isah Jibrin Echocho has openly challenged Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo after losing the APC Senate return ticket for Kogi East ahead of the 2027 elections. The development has intensified political tensions within the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, in Kogi State following the party’s senatorial primary process.
Jibrin, who currently represents Kogi East Senatorial District at the National Assembly, lost the APC primary to former Deputy Governor Edward Onoja. The outcome has triggered sharp reactions from the senator and his supporters, who questioned the conduct and political influence surrounding the exercise.
Speaking after the primary, Jibrin alleged that state power and political intimidation influenced the process that denied him the Senate return ticket. He maintained that he remained politically relevant within Kogi East and would continue consultations with his supporters regarding the next political steps.
According to the senator, “Nobody can intimidate me out of politics. I have paid my dues and I will continue to stand with the people.”
The APC primary in Kogi East formed part of the party’s broader preparations for the 2027 elections across the state. Edward Onoja, a former deputy governor under ex-Governor Yahaya Bello, emerged winner of the contest after securing support from delegates during the primary exercise.
Political observers note that the loss of the Senate return ticket represents a significant shift within Kogi APC power structures. The development reflects ongoing realignments involving key political actors connected to both the current administration and former state leadership networks.
Governor Ododo has continued to consolidate his influence within the APC since assuming office in January 2024 after succeeding former Governor Yahaya Bello. Analysts say the latest primary outcome may further shape political alliances ahead of future elections within Kogi State.
Jibrin’s response also highlights broader concerns often associated with party primaries in Nigeria, including allegations of political interference, delegate influence, and internal party competition. However, no official evidence has been presented publicly to invalidate the APC primary results in Kogi East.
The senator stated that despite losing the Senate return ticket, he would not withdraw from political engagement within the state. He urged supporters to remain calm while consultations continue among political stakeholders in the district.
The development comes amid increasing political activity across several states as parties conclude nomination processes ahead of the 2027 election cycle. Internal disputes following party primaries have remained common within Nigeria’s major political parties during previous election periods. Attention is now expected to shift toward possible reconciliation efforts within the APC in Kogi State as party leaders seek to maintain cohesion before the next general elections.
