By Muhammad Mamman
The governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party, Murtala Yakubu Ajaka, has said opposition forces are aligning to wrest power from former Governor Yahaya Bello’s camp in the 2027 Kogi State election.
Ajaka made the declaration while fielding questions from journalists in Abuja, stressing the need for unity among political actors.
“As you are aware, we know the situation of our dear state,” he said.
He noted that efforts were underway to guarantee a credible electoral process in the state.
“We are trying to ensure that we have a smooth, free and fair election,” Ajaka added.
The SDP candidate described Bello and his allies as the “common enemy,” insisting that collaboration among opposition figures was key to ending their dominance.
“And by having a smooth, free and fair election, we must all put our heads together to checkmate the common enemy,” he said.
“Who is this common enemy? Yahaya Bello and his group.”
Ajaka dismissed speculations about any alliance involving withdrawal from the race, saying no such discussions had taken place.
“No, the issue of stepping down has not arisen at all for now,” he said.
“What we are talking about is how to ensure Yahaya Bello and his cabal do not continue. That is the essence of our coming together.”
He expressed optimism that the opposition would prevail at the polls.
“And by the grace of God, we shall chase them out,” Ajaka said.
The SDP flagbearer also commended President Bola Tinubu for pledging credible elections, describing him as a democrat.
“He has shown that he is a true democrat by saying that there shall be a free and fair election in Kogi State,” he said.
“And if we have a free and fair election in Kogi State, Yahaya Bello and his group are going to be history.”
In a similar vein, a member of the House of Representatives on the platform of the African Democratic Congress, Leke Abejide, echoed Ajaka’s position.
“We will work together to chase them out,” Abejide stated.
