Coalition Seeks Power Shift To Lokoja

A coalition of youth organisations from the Lokoja/Kogi Federal Constituency has urged the All Progressives Congress (APC) to ensure a transparent and level playing field for all aspirants contesting the Kogi West senatorial ticket for the 2027 elections.

The group, Lokoja/Kogi Youth Organisations, raised concerns over alleged plans by party leaders to impose a preferred candidate for the seat, warning that such a move could undermine party unity and destabilise the area.

Addressing journalists on Thursday, the coalition’s spokesman, Hon. Maiyaki Aliyu Bala, said the press briefing became necessary following widespread speculations within political circles about a possible imposition.

He cautioned that sidelining other qualified aspirants would be undemocratic and could trigger internal discord within the party.

According to Bala, a credible and transparent primary election remains the only path to preserving the integrity of the APC and ensuring that a candidate with genuine grassroots support emerges to represent Kogi West.

The coalition also highlighted what it described as a longstanding imbalance in the distribution of the senatorial seat within the district. Bala noted that the Lokoja/Kogi Federal Constituency has occupied the position for only eight years—spanning two terms—since the return to democratic rule.

In contrast, he said the Okun axis of Kogi West has held the seat for about 19 years, a disparity the group believes has fueled feelings of marginalisation among constituents in Lokoja/Kogi.

“The essence of our appeal is to promote fairness, equity and justice within the party,” Bala said, stressing that all aspirants must be given equal opportunity to present their programmes without interference or undue advantage.

The coalition further argued that a free and fair primary would strengthen internal democracy within the APC and boost public confidence in the party ahead of the general elections.

It warned that any attempt to impose a candidate could provoke discontent among party members and lead to anti-party activities capable of weakening the APC’s electoral chances.

The group also underscored the importance of youth participation in the political process, noting their critical role in grassroots mobilisation during campaigns.