The Kogi State chapters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Social Democratic Party (SDP) have exchanged accusations following a violent incident at the Supreme Court premises on Friday. The altercation occurred shortly after the Supreme Court delivered its judgment affirming Governor Usman Ododo of the APC as the duly elected governor of Kogi State.
Kingsley Fanwo, Director of Media and Publicity for the Kogi APC Campaign Council, alleged that the violence began when supporters of the SDP, led by their candidate Murtala Ajaka, started hurling stones, bottles, and plastic containers at APC supporters and leaders who were celebrating the court’s verdict. Fanwo claimed that Ajaka and his supporters left the courtroom immediately after the judgment was pronounced against him, disregarding the court’s advice to remain seated until all matters were fully addressed.
“Upon noticing jubilant APC members within the court premises, Ajaka’s supporters unleashed violence, attacking the celebrating APC members and causing significant disruption,” Fanwo stated. He described the SDP supporters’ actions as “undemocratic” and “uncivilized.”
Despite the incident, the APC expressed gratitude for the Supreme Court’s decision, which it said preserved the mandate of the Kogi people. The party reiterated its commitment to delivering the dividends of democracy in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
In response, Isaiah Ijele, the Spokesperson for the Muri/Sam Campaign Council of the SDP in Kogi, denied the APC’s claims, calling them false and pretentious. Ijele countered that it was the SDP candidate, Ajaka, and his supporters who were actually attacked by APC supporters at the Supreme Court premises.
“We should be the ones complaining and condemning the actions of APC supporters on our supporters, not the other way round,” Ijele argued.
The incident has heightened tensions between the two parties in the aftermath of the Supreme Court’s ruling.
