Former Kogi State governorship candidate, Yakubu Murtala Ajaka, has publicly apologised to former Governor Yahaya Bello, calling for reconciliation, unity, and a renewed commitment to the progress of the state.
Ajaka, who contested the November 2023 governorship election under the platform of the Social Democratic Party, made the appeal in a statement issued on Monday.
In the statement, he reflected on the political tensions and divisions that emerged during and after the fiercely contested election.
He acknowledged that the political contest created significant strain in his relationship with the former governor, describing the disagreements as intense but rooted in political conviction rather than personal hostility.
“The political disagreement between me and the then Governor of Kogi State was marked by strong differences driven by passion and commitment rather than personal animosity,” he said.
Ajaka stated that after careful reflection, he considered it necessary to extend an olive branch in the interest of peace and the future development of the state.
“Where my actions or words may have caused offence, I profoundly apologise in the spirit of reconciliation,” he stated.
He noted that his decision was motivated by the need to move beyond past disagreements and focus on collective progress.
According to him, political contests should not create permanent divisions among leaders and citizens.
The former governorship candidate stressed that he has chosen to move forward without resentment, adding that healing and reconciliation are essential for the state’s political stability and development.
He also used the opportunity to express gratitude to his supporters across the state, including elders, youths, and political associates who stood by him during the 2023 governorship election.
Ajaka paid tribute to supporters who lost their lives during the election period, describing their sacrifices as profound and worthy of remembrance.
He said their contributions to the democratic process should never be forgotten.
Calling for a new phase of political maturity, Ajaka urged all political stakeholders in Kogi State to place unity above rivalry and ambition.
He emphasised that the broader interest of the state must remain the top priority.
“At this critical point in our state’s journey, no ambition or contest is greater than the peace and collective advancement of Kogi State,” he said.
His public apology comes only days after he announced his return to the All Progressives Congress.
The move has already triggered political discussions across Kogi, particularly as he is widely expected to pursue a bid for the Kogi East senatorial seat.
Observers believe the reconciliation effort may be part of broader political realignments aimed at rebuilding relationships within the APC ahead of future electoral contests.
Ajaka’s latest statement signals what many interpret as an attempt to reposition himself politically while promoting a message of peace and unity.
What You Should Know
Ajaka’s apology to Yahaya Bello is politically significant because reconciliation often precedes major political realignments in Nigerian politics.
His return to the APC and expected senatorial ambition make the timing notable. Public apologies of this nature are frequently strategic, aimed at rebuilding alliances, reducing resistance within party structures, and creating room for future endorsements.
In Kogi politics, where influence networks remain strong, reconciliation with key power brokers can shape electoral prospects.
The statement therefore reflects not only a peace gesture but also a calculated step in Ajaka’s evolving political journey ahead of 2027.
