Kogi East APC Forum alleges Steel Minister working against party over Echocho’s defeat

By Florence Kalu

The All Progressives Congress Justice Forum in Kogi East has accused the Minister of Steel Development, Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, of allegedly plotting to destabilise the party in the senatorial district following the outcome of the recently concluded APC senatorial primary election.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the group alleged that the minister became dissatisfied after his in-law, Jibrin Isah Echocho, lost the primary election, which it described as free, fair, credible, and reflective of the wishes of party members across Kogi East.

The Forum further alleged that the Minister boycotted the primary election and failed to participate in the democratic process despite being a prominent stakeholder of the party in the state.

According to the group, “It is disturbing that a serving Minister who was absent from a credible party nomination process is now allegedly involved in moves aimed at disrupting the collective efforts of party members in Kogi East.”

The group maintained that the APC leadership in the state provided a level playing ground for all aspirants and commended party members for conducting themselves peacefully throughout the exercise.

The Forum also called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ask the Minister to present the results of his Ward and Local Government Area in the last Governorship Election in Kogi State, insisting that political influence should be demonstrated through electoral value and grassroots acceptance.

The group warned against attempts to create division within the party and reaffirmed its support for the leadership of the APC in Kogi State, urging members to remain united ahead of future political engagements.