The Director of the City Boy Movement (CBM), Kogi State Chapter, Ogah Mark Okpanachi, has lost his bid to secure the All Progressives Congress (APC) House of Representatives ticket for Idah/Ofu,Ibaji/Igalamela-Odolu Federal Constituency.
Mark who polled 1,231 votes, lost to Ojogbane Omale Uchola with 12,032 votes.
Also, the incumbent rep member, Hon David Idris Zacharia lost at the primary, polling 1,954 votes.
Reacting to the outcome of the primary poll in a statement on Saturday, Ogah Mark rejected the results over irregularities.
“Despite the outcome of the yesterday primary election which I have outrightly rejected due to the widespread irregularities and procedural breaches observed during the exercise, I remain deeply grateful for the overwhelming love, encouragement, sacrifices, and confidence reposed in my leadership against all odds. Your support has been a strong source of strength and inspiration,” he said.
While hoping that the “right thing will prevail in the end,” Mark stated that irregularities, manipulation and injustice have no place in the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
„Though the process may have been challenged by unfortunate irregularities, I remain hopeful that the right thing will prevail in the end because justice, truth, and fairness will always stand the test of time.
„I encourage all my supporters to remain peaceful, united, and law abiding as we continue consultations on the next steps ahead. Let us remain hopeful and committed to the ideals of democracy, unity, and the progress of our constituency,” he added.
In his acceptance speech, the winner Uchola declared “no victor, no vanquished,” noting all the aspirants are winners in the contest.
“With deep gratitude to Almighty God and immense appreciation to the leadership and faithful members of our great party, APC, I humbly accept the outcome of the House of Representatives Primary Election for Idah Federal Constituency.
“Today’s victory is not mine alone; it belongs to every party stakeholder, every supporter, every delegate, and the entire people of Idah Federal Constituency who believe in unity, progress, and purposeful representation.
“In the spirit of party supremacy and brotherhood, I declare: No Victor, No Vanquished. We are all winners.
“The primary election has come and gone, and now is the time for unity, reconciliation, and collective progress toward a greater future for our constituency and our party.
“I sincerely appreciate His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, the Executive Governor of Kogi State, for his fatherly mentorship, guidance, and unwavering support in nurturing young leaders and sustaining the progressive vision of our great party. Your leadership and commitment to the growth of democracy continue to inspire many of us.
“I also extend my profound gratitude to the former Governor of Kogi State and leader of our great party, His Excellency Alhaji Yahaya Bello Adoza, the APC leadership at all levels, delegates, youths, women, and supporters who stood firm throughout this journey.
“To my fellow aspirants and supporters, I extend a hand of partnership and unity. Together, we shall build a stronger APC and deliver quality representation that will uplift the lives of our people across Idah Federal Constituency.
“I remain committed to servant leadership, inclusiveness, grassroots development, and the overall interest of our people,” he said.
