Candidate of Action Democratic Party (ADP), Barr. Julius Elukpo, has appealed to fellow governorship candidates in the November 11 election to align with the flag bearer of Social Democratic Party (SDP), Alhaji Murtala Yakubu Ajaka for a stronger Kogi State.
Recall that Elukpo and three other governorship candidates stepped down for Murtala on Friday.
Other candidates that stepped down for Alhaj Murtala are Arc Isah Dauda of APM, Dr. Onaji Sunday Frank of APP and Dr Abdullahi Bayawo of PRP.
In a letter addressed to the people of Kogi East senatorial district, Dr. Elukpo disclosed that he stepped down for SDP candidate based on the popular belief that leaders are chosen by God.
“The decision of some of us to step down for one person in the governorship election has become necessary because what happened in the past to Kogi East should not repeat itself again.
“Having money is one thing, but to govern is another. However, these were mixed up in Igala/Bassa land. Hence governance, development, etc, are eluding us.
“My interest is that governorship must go to Kogi East this time around and all bonafide members of Kogi East should key behind one candidate, if we want to achieve that. Taking chances and waiting for another 8 years again will be suicidal.
“Hence, some of us queued behind Alhaji Muritala Yakubu Ajaka. Consequently, I hereby appeal to the other aspirants to queue behind Alhaji Ajaka. I am therefore appealing to Igala/Bassa to see reasons to join us by appealing to the other aspirants to have a common voice in the 11 November 2023 Election to enable us move forward. It is a known fact that leaders are chosen by God,” he said.
Commending Dr. Elukpo and other candidates for placing people’s interest above their ambitions, Ahmad Muhammad said the decision to prioritize the collective interest of Kogi East over personal ambitions showcases a deep commitment to the region’s well-being.
“With this united front, the residents of Igala/Bassa land aim to forge a path toward a brighter and more prosperous future, underpinned by effective governance and sustainable development.
“In a bid to avoid repeating the mistakes of the past and secure a brighter future for Kogi East, several key figures have decided to step down from the governorship race and unite behind a single candidate. This strategic move aims to consolidate support and ensure the region’s long-awaited development and progress.
“One candidate who has garnered significant backing from this united front is Alhaji Murtala Yakubu Ajaka,” he said.
