Political Tension Brews in Kogi State as APC and SDP Continue Post-Election Dispute

Two months following the governorship election in Kogi State, a war of words persists between the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Social Democratic Party (SDP), heightening political tension in the state.

Concerns are raised about potential violence as the SDP plans to inspect election materials, leading to the relocation of the process to the INEC national headquarters in Abuja to prevent potential conflict.

Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo of the APC emerged victorious in the keenly contested election and is set to be sworn in as the fifth civilian governor of the state later this month.

His victory was declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), defeating his closest rival, Murtala Yakubu Ajaka of the SDP, in the November 11, 2023, polls.

However, the SDP, unlike other parties such as the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and Action Democratic Congress (ADC), is contesting the election results.

Alhaji Muritala Yakubu Ajaka, the SDP candidate, has filed a case in court, alleging significant manipulation of results in the Central Senatorial District, where the APC candidate hails from.

In a statement in November 2023, the National Chairman of the SDP, Alhaji Shehu Gabam, expressed disappointment in what he perceived as a disregard for the rule of law.

He emphasized the party’s commitment to challenging the election outcome through legal means.

In a recent development, the APC has accused the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Kogi State, Mr. Gabriel Hale Longpet, of being compromised by the SDP.

The APC alleged that the REC colluded with the SDP and its candidate to tamper with the election materials.

In response, the SDP refuted the APC’s claims, denouncing them as fake news intended to mislead the public.

The SDP’s Director of New Media, Isaiah Davies Ijele, accused the ruling party of attempting to paint INEC in a negative light through misinformation.

As of the time of this report, it remains uncertain whether the SDP successfully inspected the election materials on Thursday, as scheduled.

The SDP has reiterated its commitment to pursuing justice through legal channels, despite alleged attempts to frustrate its efforts.