Isah Jibrin, senator representing Kogi east, says he did not step down from the All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial primary race in his district.
On Monday, the APC announced Joseph Erico as the winner of the Kogi east senatorial primary.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the senator said he never withdrew from the race or authorised anyone to issue statements on his behalf regarding the contest.
“Let me state categorically and without ambiguity: I remain the authentic candidate of the APC in Kogi East and firmly committed to seeking the mandate of my people once again under the platform of our great party, the APC,” he said.
“At no time did I withdraw, step down, or authorise any individual or group to issue statements on my behalf regarding such baseless claims.
“Never at any point — verbally or in writing — have I informed anyone, institution, or authority that I will not return to the Senate in 2027.
“I remain stoic, resolute, focused, and more prepared than ever to continue rendering quality representation to the good people of Kogi East.”
The senator urged the leadership of the APC and his supporters not to fall for what he described as propaganda by political opponents.
“I urge the leadership and hierarchy of our great party, the APC, as well as my supporters and stakeholders across the district, not to fall for the antics and ploys of fifth columnists whose only stock-in-trade is confusion, blackmail, and political mischief,” he said.
Jibrin accused unnamed political actors of sponsoring fake reports because they lacked grassroots support.
“It is obvious that the sponsors of these fake reports have descended into panic mode,” he said.
“Having failed to gain the confidence and support of the people, they have resorted to crude propaganda, misinformation, and desperate, underhanded tactics in a futile attempt to distort reality and create unnecessary tension within our political family.”
The senator added that no amount of propaganda would diminish the support he enjoys from constituents in Kogi east.
“No amount of fabricated stories, sponsored propaganda, forged statements, or orchestrated campaigns of falsehood can diminish the overwhelming support, goodwill, and confidence the people of Kogi East continue to repose in me,” he said.
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