In life and in politics, there is a principle that sustains loyalty and commitment: those who labour deserve to benefit from the fruits of their labour.
Over time, some committed members of our great party have quietly expressed concern about a recurring pattern where those who work tirelessly before and after elections do not always receive commensurate recognition, while others who contributed little or joined later appear to benefit more.
Across Kogi State particularly in Kogi Central many APC youths have consistently put their reputations on the line, daily promoting, defending, and standing firmly with the party and government. Their commitment has been Profound, yet many feel overlooked and disconnected from the leadership structure.
There is also a growing perception that individuals who previously opposed the party or moved between parties are later reintegrated and rewarded, sometimes ahead of long-standing loyalists. While reconciliation and inclusiveness are important, this approach if not balanced can unintentionally weaken morale among genuine party faithful.
Some individuals who openly criticised the government over several years have recently found renewed access and engagement with party leadership. While dialogue is healthy, it is equally important that those who have consistently defended the party through difficult times feel valued and recognised.
This is not a call for exclusion, but for balance. Progress is best achieved when loyalty, consistency, and sacrifice are acknowledged alongside reconciliation efforts.
There are many young party members well over 50 by reasonable count which I know who have stood firmly with the APC since its early years and have yet to feel genuinely rewarded or integrated. Understandably, some have become less active, watching others take up responsibilities without the same level of passion or commitment.
It is often argued that individuals who recently embrace the system may lack the historical trust required for sensitive roles. Yet, in practice, such individuals are sometimes elevated above long-serving members who have remained loyal since the party’s formation in 2014. This perception deserves thoughtful reflection.
As we prepare for another political journey, it may be helpful to reassess the reward and integration system within the party. A more deliberate alignment where loyal APC members from Kogi Central, Kogi West, and Kogi East are recognised, compensated, and meaningfully integrated will strengthen unity and improve effective service delivery.
Finally, strategic communication remains crucial. As we approach the 2027 elections, there has been a noticeable increase in coordinated Sponsored attacks on the government, including from individuals outside Kogi State and even from abroad. These narratives often attempt to undermine government achievements, yet there appears to be limited structured response to strengthen the factual record.
Even the most successful governments rely on effective PR, strategic communication, and trusted influencers to project achievements and counter misinformation. Strengthening this area through credible party loyalists will enhance public confidence and protect the party’s image and the idea the party doesn’t need such efforts on media is not true and I hope we realised that early enough.
This intervention is made in good faith as a committed party man with the sole intention of strengthening the APC and ensuring sustained success.
N.B: This position is expressed strictly in my capacity as a party member, not in any official government role.
Thank you for your Attention to this Matter .
– Hon. (Prince) Matthew James Omeiza
