Fallout of Kogi East APC Primaries: Jibrin Echocho Reacts Strongly After Losing Senate Ticket
Fresh tensions may be brewing within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kogi State following the outcome of the party’s senatorial primary election in Kogi East, where incumbent Senator Jibrin Isah Echocho lost his bid for a return ticket.
Echocho was defeated by Joseph Ameh Erico in the keenly contested primary election, a development that has continued to trigger reactions among party supporters and political stakeholders across the state.
Shortly after the emergence of the results, a video surfaced online showing the senator expressing displeasure over the conduct and outcome of the exercise.
In the video, Echocho appeared visibly emotional as he accused certain political forces within the party of betrayal and unfair treatment despite what he described as his years of commitment and loyalty to the APC.
“The battle line has been drawn, and we will make sure Ododo does not return for a second term,” the senator was heard saying while addressing supporters after the primary election.
The lawmaker, who represents Kogi East Senatorial District in the National Assembly, suggested that he and his supporters were sidelined during the process, insisting that he had remained patient and dedicated to the growth of the party over the years.
The development has further fueled speculations of widening divisions within the ruling APC in Kogi State ahead of the 2027 political season.
Political analysts believe Echocho’s outburst may significantly alter political calculations in Kogi East, where he commands considerable grassroots support and influence.
Since his emergence as senator, Echocho has remained a notable figure in the district’s political landscape, making his defeat one of the major talking points from the APC primaries in the state.
Meanwhile, supporters of Joseph Ameh Erico have continued to celebrate his emergence, describing the outcome of the primary as a victory for internal democracy and the will of party members.
Efforts to get official reactions from the Kogi State Government and the APC leadership over the senator’s remarks were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.
