….Group Calls for Respect for Rule of Law, Justice
Links Alleged Threat to APC’s Primary Disputes
The Kogi Central Youth for Change has raised concerns over what it describes as alleged intimidation, harassment and abuse of power against Hon. Onimisi Okami, following his decision to seek judicial intervention over alleged irregularities surrounding the All Progressives Congress (APC) House of Representatives primary election in Kogi Central.
Hon. Onimisi Okami, who recently contested the APC primary for the House of Representatives, Adavi/Okehi Federal Constituency approached the court to challenge what he considers irregularities in the process that produced Muhammed Ahovi Yusuf as the party’s candidate.
According a statement signed by the group’s chairman Ibrahim Yusuf Adeiza on Friday, rather than allowing the matter to be determined through the appropriate judicial process, there have allegedly been attempts by persons connected to the Kogi State Government to intimidate, harass, blackmail and pressure Hon. Okami into withdrawing the case.
Kogi Central Youth for Change considers such alleged actions deeply concerning, particularly in a democracy where citizens have the constitutional right to seek legal redress when they believe that their rights or interests have been violated.
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“We are concerned about reports of threats, harassment and pressure allegedly being mounted on Hon. Onimisi Okami to abandon his legitimate pursuit of justice through the courts. If these allegations are found to be true, they represent a troubling attempt to interfere with the judicial process and undermine democratic principles.
The group emphasized that approaching the court should not be treated as an act of disloyalty or opposition to government. Rather, it is a legitimate democratic avenue available to any citizen who seeks clarification or redress over a disputed political process.
Kogi Central Youth for Change therefore calls on the Kogi State Government and all individuals associated with the matter to allow the court to perform its constitutional responsibility without interference, intimidation or undue pressure.
The group further urged Hon. Onimisi Okami to remain peaceful and law-abiding while pursuing his case through the appropriate legal channels.
“We believe that political disagreements should be resolved through dialogue, internal democratic mechanisms and, where necessary, the courts—not through intimidation or the abuse of political influence..
Kogi Central Youth for Change also called on relevant authorities, political leaders, civil society organizations and stakeholders in Kogi State to pay attention to the situation and ensure that the right to seek justice, freedom from intimidation and respect for the rule of law are protected.
The group maintained that the issue should not be viewed merely as a contest between individuals, but as a test of the commitment of political actors to internal democracy, fairness, justice and the rule of law.
Kogi Central deserves a political environment where citizens can challenge perceived irregularities without fear, intimidation or persecution.
