A leading aspirant for the Kogi East Senatorial seat under the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Kashim Yunusa Akor, has officially withdrawn from the race, citing the need for party cohesion and the strategic preservation of the district’s influence at the national level.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Akor revealed that his decision followed extensive consultations with political elders, stakeholders, and supporters across the nine local government areas of the district.
Akor noted that his ambition was originally rooted in the principles of equity and fairness. He highlighted a widespread expectation within the party that the senatorial ticket would be zoned to the Ankpa Federal Constituency (comprising Ankpa, Olamaboro, and Omala LGAs), specifically to Ankpa Local Government, which has yet to produce a Senator despite its significant voting strength.
“Despite the overwhelming belief that Ankpa possesses the political numbers to secure victory, the ticket has once again been retained in Olamaboro Local Government,” Akor stated.
However, the former aspirant stressed that he has chosen to prioritize the “bigger picture” by backing the incumbent, Senator Jibrin Isah Echocho. He noted that supporting a ranking Senator offers Kogi East a strategic advantage in the National Assembly through seniority and continuity.
“This decision is borne out of deep respect for the principle of continuity and the collective need to sustain the influence of Kogi East at the federal level,” he said. “To preserve party cohesion, I have decided to step down and support Senator Jibrin Isah Echocho.”
While expressing hope that the principle of equity would favour Ankpa Local Government in future contests, Akor urged his supporters to remain loyal to the APC and work toward the party’s success in the forthcoming elections.
He further thanked his campaign team and constituents for their unwavering solidarity, pledging to remain a committed stakeholder in the development of Kogi State.
