Audu pledges to cede power, lists manifestoes, picks Faleke as running mate

AHEAD of the November 21 Kogi State governorship poll, the All Progressives Congress’ candidate, Prince Abubakar Audu has pledged to cede power to the Ebira/Okun axis of state after his tenure, if voted into office.

Audu, who spoke against the backdrop of his decision to pick House of Representatives member, Mr. Abiodun Faleke as his running mate for the poll, said it was in line with his resolve to abide by the Kogi tripartite agreement, where power rotates among the constituent groups of Igala, Ebira and Okun.

According to Audu, the challenges of political domination and marginalisation of the Igalas in Benue State, Okuns and Ebiras in Kwara State led to the agitation for the creation of Kogi State for the three groups who had lived together peacefully under Kabba province for more than 70 years.

Audu, who would be serving out his second term in office if elected at the poll noted: “While it is an impeccable fact that the enduring infrastructures in Kogi State were products of Prince Abubakar’s stewardship, confirming the hope of sustainable development in Kogi State hangs on his return as the Governor of the State; it is also a matter of sacred truth that Abubakar is the only Igala man that can boldly, explicitly and committedly ensure that the position of governor of Kogi State goes to the remaining groups: that is, Okun and Ebira.

Audu, explaining how the leaders of Igala, Okun and Ebira reached power rotation deal in 1991, explained, “When we mutually met at one Engineer Sule’s house in Okene, in 1991, the three groups –Igalas, Ebiras and Okuns –said to themselves that they believe in power rotation. Therefore, we have destiny in our hands and it was only fair to allow Igala to have the first shot.

For that, the reason adduced by late Chief Awoniyi was that the component that came from Benue State, that is, Igala, had never had the opportunity to produce the Governor but the second component from Kwara State comprising of Ebira and Okun had had the opportunity in late Adamu Attah who was a Second Republic Governor of Kwara State. “Following that premise, it was agreed that to give it to Igala.

Further, after Igalas, it was agreed that the governorship seat should return to the other components – Okun and Ebira – which should meet to determine the next to have the seat after Igala.