The Senator representing Kogi East in the National Assembly, Isah Jibrin, has denied reports that he has stepped down from the All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial primary race in his district for the 2027 elections.
The lawmaker, in a statement on Thursday, clarified that he never withdrew from the race or authorized anyone to issue statements on his behalf regarding the contest.
This comes after the APC had on Monday declared Joseph Erico as the winner of the Kogi East senatorial primary.
However, Jibrin insisted that he remains the authentic APC candidate in Kogi East and would continue representing the people of the constituency.
“Let me state categorically and without ambiguity: I remain the authentic candidate of the APC in Kogi East and firmly committed to seeking the mandate of my people once again under the platform of our great party, the APC.
“At no time did I withdraw, step down, or authorise any individual or group to issue statements on my behalf regarding such baseless claims.
“Never at any point — verbally or in writing — have I informed anyone, institution, or authority that I will not return to the Senate in 2027.
“I remain stoic, resolute, focused, and more prepared than ever to continue rendering quality representation to the good people of Kogi East,” he said.
Jibrin blamed unnamed political opponents and mischief makers for spreading fake reports about his ambition, urged the APC leadership as well as the general public to disregard the propaganda.
“I urge the leadership and hierarchy of our great party, the APC, as well as my supporters and stakeholders across the district, not to fall for the antics and ploys of fifth columnists whose only stock-in-trade is confusion, blackmail, and political mischief.
“It is obvious that the sponsors of these fake reports have descended into panic mode.
“Having failed to gain the confidence and support of the people, they have resorted to crude propaganda, misinformation, and desperate, underhanded tactics in a futile attempt to distort reality and create unnecessary tension within our political family,” he said.
The Senator claimed that he still enjoys total support from the people of Kogi East, adding that no propaganda can change that.
“No amount of fabricated stories, sponsored propaganda, forged statements, or orchestrated campaigns of falsehood can diminish the overwhelming support, goodwill, and confidence the people of Kogi East continue to repose in me,” he said.