A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kogi State, Mustapha Obaje, has stepped down from the contest for the Idah Federal Constituency seat ahead of the 2027 general elections. He explained that his decision was motivated by the need to maintain party cohesion and to respect the internal direction of the APC leadership.
Obaje made the announcement on Friday at a press briefing in Abuja, stating that it followed consultations with key party stakeholders, including Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo.
His withdrawal comes at a time of early political repositioning within the APC in Kogi State, as leaders begin strategic discussions and negotiations ahead of the next election cycle. The Idah Federal Constituency, a politically significant area in Kogi East, has long been a highly competitive zone within the party due to its influence in broader state politics.
Speaking to journalists, he explained that loyalty to the party and prioritising collective interest over personal ambition informed his decision.
He said, “Today (Friday), after extensive consultations with respected leaders and stakeholders of our great party, the APC, and in deference to the directive and Leadership of His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Usman Ododo, I have decided to respectfully step down my aspirations and have accepted party decisions in the interest of unity, stability, and progress.
“This decision was not taken lightly but is borne out of my abiding belief that the collective interest of our party and the development of our constituency must always come above personal ambition. As loyal members of the APC, we must continue to work together in harmony to strengthen our party and ensure victory at all levels.
“I remain fully committed to the growth and advancement of Idah Federal Constituency and will continue to contribute positively toward the welfare of our people and the success of our great party.”
He further emphasised that political engagement should be rooted in sacrifice and public service rather than self-interest.
He said, “Politics should always be about service, sacrifice, and the overall interest of the people.”
Obaje also called on his supporters and associates to accept the party’s position calmly and remain committed to its leadership.
“To my supporters and political associates, I urge you all to remain calm, steadfast, peaceful, and graciously accept the party’s decision. Let us continue to uphold peace, respect constituted authority, uphold the values of our party, and work together for the success of our great party at all levels.”
Reaffirming his loyalty, the APC stalwart expressed continued support for President Bola Tinubu and Governor Ododo, pledging to keep mobilising backing for the party at both state and national levels.
“I wish also to reaffirm my complete support for the party and the administration of President Bola Tinubu, particularly his Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at repositioning Nigeria for sustainable growth and prosperity and the administration of our governor, Usman Ododo.
“Together, we must continue to mobilise support, strengthen party unity, and work tirelessly for the continued growth, stability, and development of our state and country,” he said.
Obaje also expressed gratitude to several political figures and officials who, according to him, have played important roles in his political journey, including former governor Yahaya Bello, Deputy Governor Joel Oyibo, State Accountant General Dr Habibat Tijjani, and Kogi State Auditor General Yakubu Okala, among others.
Although he did not disclose the specific internal arrangement behind his withdrawal, the move is expected to influence the unfolding race for the Idah Federal Constituency APC ticket as the party moves closer to its nomination process.
