The Kogi State All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary election was deemed free, fair, and credible by the Coalition of Independent Election Observers.
Recall that in the hotly contested primary that used a direct mode, Ahmed Usman Ododo, a former Auditor General for Local Governments in the state, defeated six other contenders to secure the party's ticket.
The Kogi State APC primary poll on November 11 was hailed as "a reference point in the conduct of primaries in the country" in the report signed by Hon. Peter Obut, Coordinating Director of Mission.
The APC has "demonstrated incredible unity under Governor Yahaya Bello and has set the bar so high - such that other political parties may never attain," the independent observers said, praising the party for "a seamless and rancour-free exercise."
Although acknowledging a few logistical hiccups along the road, the organisation stated that its team of observers stationed all around the state "inferred that no party member was disenfranchised."
Contrary to claims that the Kogi APC "was left fragmented after the withdrawal of some aspirants on the eve of the election," the report stated that the party in the state is formidable and united because all stakeholders devoted themselves to serving the needs of the party and the state during the recently held primaries.
It maintained that all candidates were treated equally and that there were no cases of intimidation or repression by the state administration, which is under the authority of the APC.
In light of the Kogi state example, which ensured a free, fair, and transparent process, the report added that the direct mode of primaries is strongly advised. It noted that this was also responsible for the peaceful conclusion of the primaries, which resulted in Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo being declared the winner.
