Kogi: I Won’t Impose Any Candidate – Gov Ododo
Ahead of the 2027 general elections, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, Governor of Kogi State, has stated unequivocally that he will not impose any candidate on any district or constituency in the state, emphasising his commitment to internal party democracy.
The governor made the declaration on Thursday during the flag-off of the All Progressives Congress (APC) electronic registration exercise held at the Glass House in Lokoja. Ododo said that party stakeholders should be allowed to freely choose candidates for elective positions without interference from government officials.
“Our party believes in fairness and due process. We must adhere strictly to the APC constitution and allow party members to decide who represents them in the general elections,” the governor said, stressing that no individual — including himself — would dictate candidacy across the state.
Reaffirming Party Confidence
Governor Ododo attributed rising confidence in the APC to the leadership reforms at the national level, particularly those of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying that the party has become more appealing to Nigerians as a result of key policy achievements. He noted improvements in the economy, stronger currency value, easing food prices and renewed emphasis on agriculture.
The Kogi governor also urged party leaders at all levels to ensure a smooth rollout of the e-registration exercise, describing it as a demonstration of the APC’s leadership in adopting modern and inclusive approaches to party administration.
“We must open our doors wide for others to join the progressive family. Everyone who comes into this party is welcome and will be treated as an equal stakeholder,” Ododo added, charging the highest political appointees in each Local Government Area to work with council chairmen and key stakeholders to ensure a successful registration.
Political Context
The governor’s comments come amid increasing political manoeuvring ahead of the 2027 polls, with party delegates and aspirants in Kogi State preparing for forthcoming primaries. The APC leadership has been advocating for transparency and due process as part of efforts to deepen democratic practices within the party.
Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, who became governor in 2024 after winning the 2023 gubernatorial election, has been instrumental in consolidating party structures and outreach in the state since assuming office.