APC Reps Primary: Mark Ogah Demands Transparent Process as Materials Reach Kogi Wards
Ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) House of Representatives primary election in Kogi State scheduled for Saturday, aspirant for the Idah Federal Constituency, Hon. Mark Ogah Okpanachi, has called for a peaceful, transparent and credible exercise across all wards in the constituency.
Okpanachi, who is also the Director of the City Boy Movement, Kogi Chapter, said the conduct of the primary would test the party’s commitment to internal democracy and grassroots participation.
He stressed that the election should be conducted strictly in line with the approved guidelines, noting that voting was expected to take place in every ward within the constituency rather than in selected centres.
The APC chieftain urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), party officials, security agencies and other stakeholders involved in the exercise to ensure full compliance with laid down procedures guiding the primary.
According to him, adherence to the ward-based voting arrangement is necessary to guarantee fairness, credibility and equal participation for party members at the grassroots.
He warned that any deviation from the established process could weaken public confidence in the integrity of the exercise.
His remarks followed reports that election materials had already been distributed to different parts of the state, including the Idah Federal Constituency comprising Idah, Ibaji, Igalamela/Odolu and Ofu Local Government Areas.
Okpanachi maintained that the credibility of the process was more important than the outcome, insisting that party members should be allowed to freely choose their preferred candidate without intimidation, interference or imposition.
He said moments such as the APC primary play a significant role in shaping democratic culture within political parties and strengthening public trust in leadership institutions.
The aspirant also expressed confidence in the leadership of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo and the APC structure in Kogi State to ensure fairness, orderliness and transparency throughout the exercise.
He noted that the enthusiasm among party faithful ahead of the primary reflected growing confidence in the party and the desire for a process that members could trust.
“Democracy retains its meaning when the people are allowed to make decisions freely and transparently. The voices at the grassroots must remain the foundation upon which leadership emerges,” he stated.
Okpanachi further said the APC had continued to enjoy public support in Kogi State because of its progressive ideals and connection with the aspirations of ordinary citizens.
He added that the primary election presents another opportunity for the party to reinforce public confidence through a credible and transparent process.
As anticipation builds ahead of the exercise, party members across the state are expressing hopes that the primary will reflect fairness, credibility and respect for the collective will of APC faithful.
