The 2023 Social Democratic Party governorship candidate in Kogi State, Murtala Ajaka, has come under fresh attack from the Igala Vanguard over his alleged connection with recent protests at the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission in Abuja.
The group challenged Ajaka to take responsibility for the protests, accusing him of attempting to use the demonstrations to rebrand himself politically after allegedly losing support among some political stakeholders.
However, Ajaka has denied involvement in the protests, dismissing the allegation as political propaganda.
The latest development followed a statement by the convener of Igala Vanguard, Lawrence Ankpa, who also criticised Ajaka for describing the group as “faceless.”
Ankpa said the description was unfair, recalling that the group had previously supported Ajaka’s governorship ambition.
He said members of the group hosted Ajaka in Lagos and sent representatives to his campaign fundraising event at the Nicon Luxury Hotel in Abuja, where they made financial contributions.
“It is unfortunate that a man whom the Igala people laboured for is now calling them faceless,” Ankpa said.
The group alleged that Ajaka only began distancing himself from the INEC protests after the action failed to attract the expected support, particularly in Kogi West.
It consequently challenged him to “be man enough” and explain his alleged role in the demonstrations.
The allegation could not be independently verified.
Igala Vanguard also criticised Ajaka’s political record, questioning his claim to leadership of Kogi East.
Ankpa alleged that the SDP candidate had previously apologised to former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, after challenging Bello’s preferred candidate.
The group said the alleged apology demonstrated a lack of political conviction.
“By begging and apologising for standing against the former governor’s choice, Ajaka demonstrated a lack of political conviction,” the statement said.
Ajaka, however, has maintained that the accusations against him are politically motivated and has denied sponsoring the INEC protests.
The latest exchange comes as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 elections, with rival groups increasingly trading accusations over political alliances, protests and attempts to influence voters.