By: Goodluck E.Adubazi, Abuja.

A group of elders within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kogi State has raised concerns over what it describes as deepening internal divisions and an alleged plot to undermine the lawmaker representing Kogi West Senatorial District, Sunday Steve Karimi.

In a strongly worded statement issued by the Kogi State APC Elders Assembly, the leaders alleged that some party officials from Kogi West were mobilizing toward Abuja with plans to stage a “vote of no confidence” against the senator at the National Assembly, followed by a visit to the APC national headquarters.

The elders dismissed the move as a “charade,” insisting it does not reflect the sentiments of constituents in Kogi West.

According to them, Senator Karimi continues to enjoy widespread support and respect within his district.

The statement further warned that such actions could worsen internal discord within the party and undermine its cohesion ahead of the next general elections.

The elders also called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda to urgently intervene, citing what they described as “divisive schemes” threatening party unity in Kogi State.

They accused Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of fostering disunity within party ranks, alleging that his leadership style has set members and stakeholders against one another. The elders described the situation as “ominous” given the proximity of upcoming elections.

The controversy follows an earlier development on March 12, 2026, when some local government party chairmen in Kabba-Bunu reportedly passed a vote of no confidence on Senator Karimi—an action the elders claim was politically motivated and contrary to the lawmaker’s performance record.

They also raised concerns about the conduct of recent party congresses in the state, alleging that key stakeholders were sidelined and that delegate lists were compiled without broad consultation, leading to dissatisfaction among party members.

Highlighting regional tensions, the elders noted what they described as a “dangerous silence” from Kogi East, pointing to growing discontent and feelings of exclusion among party faithful in the area.

They added that, aside from Okene in Kogi Central, many parts of the state are experiencing widespread alienation from the party structure.

The elders warned that continued marginalization and internal strife could push members toward political realignments, especially as opposition and alternative platforms become more attractive to aggrieved stakeholders.

The statement was jointly signed by Dr. Hezekiah Ikusemoro (Kogi West), Alhaji Adaviriku Omeiza (Kogi Central), and Barrister David Ameh (Kogi East), on behalf of the Kogi State APC Elders Assembly.