Kogi: APC Reps Aspirant Okpanachi Calls for Free, Fair Primary in Idah Fed. Constituency
….Reaffirm commitment for Tinubu, Ododo’s second term bidp
By Yahaya Idris
A frontline aspirant for the House of Representatives under the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Idah Federal Constituency, Ogah Mark Okpanachi, has called for a peaceful, transparent, and credible primary election ahead of the party’s scheduled exercise on May 15, 2026.
Speaking during a press briefing, Okpanachi declared that he has fulfilled all constitutional and party requirements to contest in the primary and is fully prepared for the exercise.
He stressed that the contest must reflect the true will of party members and delegates, rather than being influenced by imposition or manipulation.
According to him, democracy can only thrive when aspirants are given a level playing ground to test their popularity based on competence, accessibility, and their track record of service.
He urged the leadership of the APC, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and security agencies to ensure a neutral and conducive environment for all aspirants, warning that any attempt to undermine the process could weaken confidence in the party and affect its chances in the 2027 general elections.
Okpanachi further noted that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, under the Renewed Hope Agenda, has consistently promoted internal democracy and fairness, adding that such principles must be upheld during the primary process.
He lamented what he described as years of poor representation and leadership imposition in Idah Federal Constituency, which he said had contributed to developmental setbacks.
He emphasized the need for a new direction that prioritizes youth empowerment, women inclusion, and effective representation at the national level.
The aspirant, who also serves as Director of the City Boy Movement (CBM) in Kogi State, expressed confidence in his grassroots support and longstanding commitment to the growth of the APC across the state.
He cautioned against attempts to secure political advantage through backdoor arrangements, insisting that leadership must be earned through the trust and acceptance of the people.
Okpanachi also appealed to the Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, to uphold fairness and internal democracy by ensuring a level playing field for all contenders.
He warned that imposing an unpopular candidate could undermine party unity and electoral prospects in the constituency.
While expressing optimism about his chances, he called on his supporters to remain peaceful, law-abiding, and respectful throughout the primary process, stressing that violence has no place in democratic engagement.
“I am ready, qualified, and committed to delivering quality representation to the people of Idah Federal Constituency,” he said.
He concluded by urging party stakeholders to allow the will of the people to prevail.
