…Why the controversial factional exercise lacks legitimacy, constitutional backing and public confidence in Kogi East PDP politics
As a committed member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and a loyal stakeholder in the political future of Kogi East, I feel compelled to address the controversial factional primaries recently organised by the Turaki-led camp within the party.
Ordinarily, primary elections are meant to reflect the democratic will of party delegates under transparent procedures recognised by law and supervised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Sadly, what played out in Kogi East can best be described as an “audio primary” — an exercise conducted without credibility, legitimacy or institutional recognition.
The purported primaries, which allegedly produced Barr. Humphrey Abah as Senate candidate for Kogi East Senatorial District and Hon. Meliga as candidate for Dekina/Bassa Federal Constituency, have continued to attract widespread criticism from genuine party faithful across the district.
One of the biggest concerns surrounding the exercise was the complete absence of INEC officials. In a democracy governed by constitutional processes and electoral guidelines, any primary conducted without the presence or recognition of INEC naturally raises serious legal and political questions.
Beyond that, reports from the venue indicated an embarrassingly poor turnout of delegates and supporters, further exposing the weakness of the factional arrangement. Many observers described the gathering as lacking the political weight and organisational structure expected of a serious party primary.
It is important for the good people of Kogi East to understand that the recognised leadership structure of the PDP remains the only lawful authority empowered to conduct valid primaries and produce authentic candidates for the 2027 general election.
For the avoidance of doubt, Alhaji Muhammed Abdullahi, popularly known as “Elephant,” remains the authentic and duly recognised PDP Senatorial Candidate for Kogi East Senatorial District.
Likewise, Hon. Ikani Okolo remains the authentic PDP candidate for Dekina/Bassa Federal Constituency, Hon. Paul remains the recognised candidate for Idah Federal Constituency, while Barr. Abubakar remains the validly recognised PDP candidate for Ankpa, Omala and Olamaboro Federal Constituency.
I therefore urge party faithful and the general public not to be deceived by political propaganda, misinformation and attempts to create confusion within the PDP family in Kogi East. Those emerging from unofficial and controversial arrangements cannot override the authority of the recognised party structure.
As political activities intensify ahead of 2027, this is the time for unity, discipline and loyalty to constitutional processes within our great party. Personal ambitions should never be placed above party integrity and democratic principles.
To those attempting to mislead the public with factional narratives, my simple message remains: do not allow those who have been fooled to fool you.
Kogi East deserves credible leadership, transparent politics and a united PDP capable of rescuing our people from the continued hardship and stagnation under the APC administration.
Say NO to those who are waiting for political negotiations in Kogi East!!!
– Michael Samuel Idoko
Recognized PDP Loyalist and House of Assembly Candidate, Olamaboro State Constituency
