2027: Ajaka, Abejide Plot Ouster of Yahaya Bello’s Political Structure in Kogi

PRESSNGR — The governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Kogi State, Murtala Yakubu Ajaka, has declared that opposition forces are mobilising to end the political dominance of former Governor Yahaya Bello and his allies ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
Ajaka made the remarks while speaking with journalists in Abuja, where he stressed the importance of unity among opposition leaders and political stakeholders determined to reshape the future of Kogi State.
According to him, the mission of the opposition is not just about political ambition, but about rescuing the state from what he described as the grip of Bello’s political structure.
Opposition Must Unite — Ajaka
Ajaka said all well-meaning political actors in Kogi must come together if they are serious about dislodging what he termed the “common enemy” in the state.
“As you are aware, we know the situation of our dear state,” Ajaka said.
He added that discussions and strategic engagements were ongoing to ensure that the people of Kogi are given the opportunity to participate in a credible, transparent and peaceful electoral process in 2027.
“We are trying to ensure that we have a smooth, free and fair election,” he said.
The SDP chieftain maintained that only a united opposition can challenge the entrenched influence of the former governor and his loyalists.
“And by having a smooth, free and fair election, we must all put our heads together to checkmate the common enemy,” he stated.
When asked to identify the “common enemy,” Ajaka did not mince words.
“Who is this common enemy? Yahaya Bello and his group,” he said.
No Talks of Stepping Down
Ajaka also dismissed growing speculation that he or any major opposition figure may eventually step down as part of a broader coalition arrangement ahead of the election.
According to him, no such discussion is currently on the table, insisting that the focus remains on building a formidable front capable of confronting Bello’s camp politically.
“No, the issue of stepping down has not arisen at all for now,” he said.
“What we are talking about is how to ensure Yahaya Bello and his cabal do not continue. That is the essence of our coming together.”
The SDP candidate expressed confidence that the opposition would triumph if the election is conducted in a free and fair manner.
“And by the grace of God, we shall chase them out,” Ajaka declared.
Ajaka Commends Tinubu Over Election Promise
In his remarks, Ajaka also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to credible elections, describing the President as a democrat whose position on electoral fairness could significantly shape the outcome of the Kogi contest.
He argued that if the electoral process is allowed to reflect the true will of the people, the political influence of Bello and his associates would be defeated at the ballot box.
“He has shown that he is a true democrat by saying that there shall be a free and fair election in Kogi State,” Ajaka said.
“And if we have a free and fair election in Kogi State, Yahaya Bello and his group are going to be history.”
Leke Abejide Backs Anti-Bello Coalition
Ajaka’s position was also echoed by Leke Abejide, a member of the House of Representatives elected on the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Abejide signalled support for a broad-based political alliance aimed at ending the hold of Bello’s camp on Kogi politics.
“We will work together to chase them out,” Abejide stated.
2027 Kogi Battle Taking Shape
Ajaka’s comments are expected to further heat up the political atmosphere in Kogi State, where permutations and realignments ahead of the 2027 governorship election are already gathering momentum.
With opposition figures increasingly speaking about coalition-building, the race for Lugard House may shape up into one of the fiercest political contests in the state’s recent history.
Political observers believe that if the opposition succeeds in presenting a united front, the 2027 election could become a defining battle over the future direction of Kogi politics.