Kogi East: APC stakeholders, Igala Vanguard endorse Senator Echocho

Critical stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kogi East, alongside the Igala Vanguard, have appealed to Kogi Governor Usman Ododo and his predecessor Yahaya Bello to support the return of Senator Jibrin Isah (Echocho) to the National Assembly.

The groups argued that retaining the lawmaker, popularly known as Echocho, would not only reward performance but also enhance Kogi East’s chances of securing greater benefits at the federal level.

In a statement signed by Alhaji Ibrahim Mohammed, the APC Kogi East Critical Stakeholders said Senator Echocho remains the party’s most viable candidate, citing his constituency projects and legislative contributions.

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“Senator Echocho represents an easy electoral victory for the APC. His achievements are visible across all local government areas, spanning education, healthcare, and community empowerment,” the statement read.

The stakeholders listed several interventions, including the provision of school buses, construction and renovation of classrooms, access to potable water, and empowerment programmes for women and youths.

They also pointed to his efforts at the national level, highlighting advocacy for a Federal Medical Centre in Idah and sponsorship of an Orthopedic Hospital bill currently awaiting presidential assent. Other projects referenced include the push for alternative financing for the Lokoja–Shintaku bridge and road developments in Anyigba, Dekina, Oguma, and Gboloko.

According to the group, recent amendments to Senate rules on seniority could position returning lawmakers like Echocho for principal leadership roles—an advantage they say would translate into increased “democratic dividends” for the district.

“To build on this momentum, we need an experienced hand. There is no need to change a winning team,” the statement added.

Igala Vanguard dismisses opposing group
In a related development, the Igala Vanguard rejected claims by a group identified as the “Kogi East Elders Forum,” which reportedly opposed Echocho’s return.

Speaking through its convener, Engr. Lawrence Ankpa, the group described the forum as “faceless” and accused unnamed actors of attempting to undermine the senator’s legislative progress.

“We call on party leadership and the public to disregard the claims of this non-existent group. The name used to sign that statement is not known within Igala political or traditional circles,” Ankpa said.

The group passed a vote of confidence in Senator Echocho and urged him to remain focused, insisting that his experience and seniority would be critical to advancing Kogi East’s interests in the Senate.