Leaders and stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ozoro Wards 1, 2, and 3 have dismissed reports suggesting a withdrawal of support for Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko, member representing Isoko North and South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.
At a stakeholders’ meeting in Ozoro, party leaders described the claims as misleading and inconsistent with the position of the community, reaffirming their backing for the lawmaker.
The clarification follows circulating reports alleging a rift between Ukodhiko and Leo Ogor, a former Majority Leader of the House of Representatives, and suggesting that Ozoro would not support Ukodhiko’s re-election bid in 2027.
Addressing the gathering, the Senior Special Assistant to the lawmaker, Sunday Elueni, described the narrative as a misrepresentation. He noted that several prominent indigenes of Ozoro remain part of Ukodhiko’s political structure, underscoring sustained grassroots support.
Elueni explained that the controversy arose during the nomination of the APC Local Government Chairman in the recent congress process. According to him, a six-member committee, which included key political figures and stakeholders, unanimously adopted the nomination put forward by Ukodhiko, who is the highest-ranking political office holder in the constituency.
Corroborating this position, community leader Emmanuel Edevor stated that the tradition of allowing the highest office holder to nominate the party chairman was duly followed and widely accepted. He cautioned against attempts to create division within the community, insisting that Ukodhiko’s performance justifies continued support.
Read also:
- Ozoro kingdom describes reports of rape during Alue-Do Festival as misleading, false
- Youth to resume protest over deplorable condition of Ikom – Obudu Highway on Monday
- Alleged assault of journalist in Bauchi by police sparks outrage
In his remarks, High Chief Miller Akpoili expressed concern that Leo Ogor may have been misinformed, while Nicolas Areh clarified that Ogor did not direct any withdrawal of support, describing the reports as a misinterpretation.
The meeting culminated in a voice vote presided over by former lawmaker Abikelegba Odhegolor, where stakeholders overwhelmingly passed a vote of confidence in Ukodhiko.
Prominent figures, including Gabriel Ebegbare and Maikpobi Onokareme, supported the motion, reinforcing the community’s unified stance.
The gathering, attended by party leaders, traditional rulers, women and youth representatives, ended with a renewed commitment to party unity and grassroots mobilisation in Ozoro ahead of future elections.
