By Nnasom David

A group under the aegis of Kogi East Youth Stakeholders has advised Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo to ensure openness and fairness in the political process in Kogi East, particularly ahead of future party primaries.

The group, in a statement, cautioned against supporting any alleged third-term agenda linked to the senator representing Kogi East, noting that such a move could affect the fortunes of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the region.

According to the stakeholders, recycling politicians who are “not accessible and not people-oriented” could create setbacks for the party, adding that leaders who are disconnected from the grassroots should not be imposed on the people.

They also urged the governor not to allow individuals outside Kogi State to influence political decisions within the state, stressing that party members and residents should be allowed to freely choose their preferred candidates.

“The only acceptable option is to allow party members and the people to freely choose their preferred candidate,” the group stated.

The youths maintained that a free and fair primary election remains the best democratic approach, adding that loyal party members who have actively participated in party activities over the years should be given the opportunity to contest elective positions.

They argued that imposing “total strangers” on the people could weaken the party’s support base in Kogi East.

The group also called on Governor Ododo to prioritise unity and inclusiveness in the party’s political process to sustain the APC’s strength in the senatorial district.