Protesters, on Tuesday, stormed the national secretariat of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abuja demanding that the party leadership cancel the primary election held in Kogi Central senatorial district and conduct a fresh one.
Bello won the APC senatorial primary election for Kogi central after securing victory across the five LGAs in the district.
Addressing journalists during the protest, Usman Adabara, the coordinator of the Kogi Central Movement, said the process was flawed from the outset.
Adabara alleged that Bello had ignored the screening committee because he would have been disqualified over his cases with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
“We are here to strongly express our opposition to the senatorial ambition of former Governor Yahaya Bello and to call on the APC leadership not to consider him for the Kogi central senatorial ticket,” he said.
“The protest before the public today is a call for conscience, accountability, and responsible leadership.
“A man surrounded by serious allegations, public distrust, and questions over his stewardship of Kogi state should not be rewarded with another opportunity to represent the people at the national assembly.
“Kogi people deserve leaders with integrity, credibility, and respect for democratic processes.”
Adabara said Bello’s decision to avoid the APC screening process had deepened suspicion and anger among party members and residents of the state.
“Screening is an important part of party democracy. Every aspirant is expected to face the process openly and honestly,” he said.
“Avoiding such scrutiny damages public trust and creates the impression that some individuals believe they are above party rules and above accountability.”
Suleiman Otaru, a youth leader in Kogi central, who addressed the protesters, urged the APC leadership to reverse the outcome of the primary to preserve the party’s credibility in the district.
“Today, we appeal to the conscience of the APC leadership to reject this ambition in the interest of justice, credibility, and the survival of the party in Kogi state,” Otaru said.
“Kogi central deserves leaders who will protect the people’s resources, defend the dignity of the state, and inspire confidence among the next generation.
“Our message is simple and clear. The APC must not reward controversy, avoidable suspicion, and failed leadership with another public office. The future of Kogi state is too important for such a mistake to be repeated.”
