Kogi SDP Warns Governor Ododo Against Interference in Party Affairs Amid Electoral Concerns
Lokoja, Nigeria – The Kogi State chapter of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) has issued a stern warning to Governor Usman Ododo and the state’s judiciary, cautioning them against alleged interference in the party’s internal matters. This warning comes amid rising allegations of government meddling, which have raised concerns about the integrity of the electoral process in Kogi State.
Allegations of Government Interference
The allegations suggest that the state government is actively attempting to influence the Social Democratic Party’s operations by backing certain elements within the party to disrupt its internal processes. This has led to worries about the potential impact on the credibility of upcoming elections in Kogi State.
In a press release issued on Monday, Isaiah Davies Ijele, the Director of New Media and Spokesperson for the Muri/Sam Campaign Council-SDP, condemned these alleged actions by the government, describing them as “unacceptable” and a “blatant disregard for democratic principles.” He further advised Governor Ododo to concentrate on governance and the development of the state’s resources instead of interfering in the party’s affairs.
“Blatant Disregard for Democratic Principles”
“The attempt by the Ododo-led government to interfere with the Kogi State Social Democratic Party’s internal affairs is unacceptable,” Ijele stated. “The government is using the suspended Chairman and other unscrupulous members of the SDP to obstruct the submission of candidate names for the local government election. This is a clear encroachment on party politics.”
The statement from the SDP highlights the concern that such interference not only undermines the party’s autonomy but also poses a threat to the democratic process within the state. The SDP asserts its right to manage its internal affairs without external influence, in line with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Call for Integrity and Autonomy
Ijele emphasized the importance of respecting party independence and called on both the state government and the judiciary to refrain from meddling in SDP’s affairs. He assured that the party would remain steadfast in defending its integrity and autonomy.
“We will stand firm in defending our party’s integrity and autonomy in alignment with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” Ijele declared. “Governor Ododo should be more concerned with how to govern the state and harness its natural resources while the time lasts than causing fracas in the SDP, Kogi State chapter.”
Implications for Kogi’s Electoral Process
These developments come at a critical time for Kogi State, where the electoral process is under scrutiny. The SDP’s allegations of interference are likely to add to the already tense political climate in the region, with potential implications for the upcoming local government elections.
The party’s stance underscores a broader concern about the role of government in electoral matters and the necessity of ensuring a fair and transparent electoral process. As Kogi State prepares for elections, the SDP’s warning serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding democratic values and safeguarding the independence of political parties.