Kogi Accountant-General’s Call Rejected by Ohere Group as APC Crisis Deepens Ahead of 2027
The recent call allegedly encouraging a former aspirant to contest the Kogi Central senatorial seat in 2027, reportedly linked to the Kogi State Accountant-General, Dr. Habibat Tijani Onumoko, has been firmly rejected by the Ohere political group. The move has further exposed growing cracks within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kogi Central, raising concerns about internal cohesion ahead of the next general election.
Observers note that the call, rather than fostering unity, has reignited old rivalries and set the stage for deeper division within the party. Party faithful argue that such signals, coming from influential quarters, risk destabilising the delicate balance already strained by past political contests.
Historically, His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Bello (FGYB) has played a decisive role in shaping the senatorial trajectory of Kogi Central. From the era of Distinguished Senator Ahmed Ogembe (Oseni)—widely regarded as a well-connected and performing senator—who was denied a second term, to the 2023 anointing of Engr. Sadiku Ohere, political outcomes have largely followed the direction of the former governor’s preferences.
In 2023, Engr. Sadiku Ohere emerged as the APC senatorial candidate and won the election, only for the victory to be overturned by the courts in favour of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. Throughout that process, Senator Ohere reportedly expended enormous resources—running into billions—before, during, and after the election, largely without support from the inner political circle often referred to as the “cabal.”
Supporters of Senator Ohere further contend that Dr. Habibat Tijani Onumoko rose politically through the ladder and goodwill of Engr. Sadiku Ohere, only for political interests to later redefine relationships. While politics is undeniably about interests, many within the Ohere camp see recent developments as acts of betrayal rather than healthy competition.
Despite the court setback, Distinguished Senator Sadiku Ohere is said to have resumed political engagement immediately, commencing consultations and grassroots mobilisation from day one after the judgment, with the continued backing of his political godfather. Regular weekly meetings reportedly hold at his residence in GRA, Okene, focused on strategy and preparation for the 2027 senatorial contest.
As these activities intensify, confusion within the APC continues unabated. Stakeholders worry that multiple power centres pushing conflicting ambitions may weaken the party’s chances in Kogi Central.
In light of this, party leaders and concerned stakeholders are calling on Alhaji Yahaya Bello to distance himself from actions capable of deepening internal divisions and to remain focused on his broader national political pursuits. As a leader regarded by many as a father figure, he is urged to ensure fairness and restraint, allowing no one to trample on the legitimate ambitions of others.
Critics also caution that those urging FGYB to re-enter or heavily influence the senatorial contest have largely secured their own positions, while pressuring intended aspirants to step aside. They argue that Senator Ohere, having invested heavily—politically, financially, and personally—should not be denied once again, even as other aspirants such as AK Salihu, Chief Obaro Momoh Yusuf, and others warm up for the race.
Ultimately, the rejection of the alleged call by the Ohere group underscores a broader message: perceived betrayal and imposition will not be taken lightly. If unresolved, these tensions may not only fracture the APC in Kogi Central but also reshape the political landscape as 2027 approaches.