Akor Withdraws From Kogi East Senatorial Race, Backs Echocho for Party Unity
By Our Correspondent
A frontline aspirant for the Kogi East Senatorial ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC),
Dr. Kashim Yunusa Akor, has officially relinquished his ambition in support of the incumbent Senator, Jibrin Isah Echocho, citing the need for party unity, continuity, and political stability in Kogi East.
In a press statement issued on May 20, 2026, Dr. Akor said his decision followed extensive consultations with political associates, elders, stakeholders, and supporters across the senatorial district.
The former aspirant explained that he joined the APC senatorial contest with strong belief in equity, fairness, and the zoning arrangement which, according to him, favoured Ankpa Federal Constituency comprising Ankpa, Olamaboro, and Omala Local Government Areas.
Dr. Akor noted that Ankpa Local Government, despite its voting strength and longstanding support for the APC, had yet to produce a senator for Kogi East, unlike Olamaboro Local Government which had repeatedly occupied the position.
He stated that the outcome of the party’s senatorial ticket process disappointed many party faithful who expected justice and political balance to favour Ankpa this time around.
According to him, despite the perceived imbalance, he resolved to step aside in the collective interest of the party and the district.
He further explained that his support for Senator Echocho was informed by the need to sustain ranking opportunities and preserve Kogi East’s influence at the national level.
Dr. Akor emphasized that personal ambition must sometimes be sacrificed for broader political stability, peace, and unity within the APC.
He therefore appealed to his supporters to remain calm, loyal, and committed to the ideals of the ruling party while expressing optimism that the spirit of equity and justice would eventually favour Ankpa Local Government in future political arrangements.
The APC chieftain also appreciated supporters and stakeholders for their prayers, encouragement, and solidarity throughout his senatorial aspiration, reaffirming his commitment to the political advancement and development of Kogi East, Kogi State, and Nigeria at large.
