Former governorship candidate in Kogi State, Yakubu Murtala Ajaka, has been successfully screened by the All Progressives Congress for the Kogi East Senatorial race ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Yakubu, popularly known among supporters as “Muri” was granted a waiver on Saturday by the chairman of the screening committee and former Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu, to “take a bow and go” during the screening exercise.
The gesture was described by party faithful as recognition of his contributions to the APC and his previous role as Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the party.
Speaking with journalists shortly after the exercise, Ajaka called for reconciliation, peace and unity among the people of Kogi East, stressing that sustainable development can only thrive where there is cooperation and collective purpose.
He urged political leaders and stakeholders to put aside personal interests and work together for the advancement of the Igala nation and the overall development of Kogi State.
According to him, his aspiration is driven by the desire to provide purposeful and people-oriented representation that reflects the true needs and aspirations of ordinary citizens.
Ajaka stated that, if elected, he would leverage his national political contacts and influence to attract federal presence, development projects, youth empowerment opportunities and economic investments to Kogi East.
“I want to be a true representative of the people, someone who listens to their voices and fights sincerely for their interests,” he said.
He further assured supporters that his campaign would focus on practical solutions to unemployment, insecurity, underdevelopment and infrastructure challenges affecting the district.
In a moment, Ajaka paid tribute to supporters who lost their lives during the 2023 governorship election, pledging continued support for the families of those who “paid the supreme price” for the movement.
He also called on APC members and residents of Kogi State to support the re-election of President Bola Tinubu, describing the President as critical to Nigeria’s stability and economic transformation.
Political observers believe Ajaka’s growing grassroots influence across the nine local government areas of Kogi East has positioned him as one of the leading figures to watch ahead of the 2027 elections.