In a strategic move to fortify internal cohesion and solidify party structures ahead of the 2027 general elections, Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has inaugurated a 17-member All Progressives Congress (APC) Peace and Conflict Resolution Committee.
The inauguration ceremony, which took place on Tuesday saw the Governor mandate the committee to reconcile aggrieved party members, restore lasting unity, and bring inactive founding stalwarts back into the fold.
Heading the high-powered panel is former Governor of Kogi State, Capt. Idris Ichala Wada.
Describing the committee’s mandate as historic, Governor Ododo emphasized that the APC’s political dominance in the state relies strictly on its ability to embrace internal democracy and accommodate diverse interests through peaceful engagement.
Underscoring his governance philosophy, the Governor stated that he has always prioritized consultation and dialogue over political confrontation. He recalled that following his victory in the 2023 governorship election, he deliberately reached out to political actors across party, ethnic, and religious lines to foster inclusive governance—a spirit he noted must now drive the reconciliation effort within the ruling party.
Addressing the committee members, Governor Ododo stressed that internal differences must give way to the collective interest of the party and the state, especially as political momentum builds toward 2027. He noted that the APC has consistently led Kogi State since 2015 and expressed optimism for an even stronger outing in the next general elections if unity is fully restored.
The Governor also used the platform to appreciate the continuous support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, pointing to major infrastructure approvals such as the Kogi International Airport and the Ajaokuta Economic City. He highlighted how federal economic reforms have boosted state revenue, enabling impactful developmental projects.
Reaffirming the state’s unwavering backing for the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Governor Ododo declared that Kogi State remains resolutely behind President Tinubu.
The committee has been given a three-week timeline to conduct a comprehensive assessment of internal rifts. Its deliverables include producing a Statewide Grievance and Stakeholder Mapping Report, drafting an APC Continuous Reconciliation Action Plan, compiling a register of unresolved disputes with proposed solutions, and framing a mechanism to reintegrate returning members and onboard new ones.
Accepting the charge, Chairman of the committee, Capt. Idris Wada, commended Governor Ododo’s peaceful leadership style and assured him that the panel would hit the ground running to fulfill its mandate thoroughly. Similarly, Second Vice Chairman and former Deputy Governor, Chief Edward Onoja, pledged that the committee would adhere strictly to its terms of reference to achieve lasting peace across all quarters.
The panel features a robust lineup of prominent political leaders, including former Deputy Governor Yomi Awoniyi as First Vice Chairman, Chief Edward David Onoja as Second Vice Chairman, and Pharm. Mohammed Jamiu Asuku as Third Vice Chairman.
Other members comprise Chief Dr. Sani Teidi, Hajiya Ramatu Tijani Aliyu, Hajiya Salamatu Baiwa Umar-Eluma, Hon. Dan Okolo, Prince Kolawole Mathew, Alh. Abubakar Sanusi Gamji, Alh. Abubakar Sadiq Amodu, Alhaji Ado Shuaibu, Hon. Abdulkareem Salihu, Hajiya Ramatu Shehu Atta, ASP Aurelus Adejoh Yusuf, and Hon. Bode Ogunmola, with Arc. Mohammed Suleiman serving as Secretary.
The inauguration has ignited fresh optimism among APC faithful across the state, signaling a decisive step toward harmonizing party structures for long-term political stability.
