Hon. Joseph Odawn, a National Democratic Coalition (NDC) aspirant for the Dekina/Bassa Federal Constituency, has sparked a firestorm within the party by accusing the Kogi State leadership of a “calculated theft” of his mandate.
In a strongly worded statement released following an official party meeting at the NUT Hotel in Lokoja, Odawn condemned the proceedings, describing them as a betrayal of the party’s founding ideals. He specifically called out the Kogi State NDC Chairman, alleging that the leadership acted in a “compromised” manner that abandoned the principles of fairness and internal democracy.
Odawn expressed particular bitterness over the treatment of grassroots loyalists, especially those who have been the backbone of the “Obidient” movement and the vision for a new Nigeria. He claimed that these dedicated supporters are being sidelined in favor of individuals with “questionable allegiance” to the party.
“For years, many of us have sacrificed our time, resources, and energy in building this movement,” Odawn stated. “It is painful that those who stood firm during the struggle are now being sidelined for personal interests and political deals.”
The aspirant maintained that the current situation is a temporary setback, vowing that the “will of the people” cannot be permanently suppressed by manipulation. While calling the development an injustice, he urged his supporters across the Dekina/Bassa Federal Constituency to remain calm and law-abiding.
“I remain committed to the ideals of justice, fairness, and service,” Odawn said. “We will continue to pursue every legitimate avenue to challenge this injustice. History will remember those who stood for truth and those who chose to betray the trust of the people.”
As of press time, the Kogi State executive of the NDC has not issued an official response to the allegations.
