The socio-political group, Igala Vanguard, has challenged the Social Democratic Party (SDP) governorship candidate in Kogi, Muritala Ajaka, to clarify his alleged connection with the organisers of a recent protest at the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Abuja.
The group’s reaction followed comments by Ajaka in which he reportedly described Igala Vanguard as a “faceless” organisation.
In a statement issued by its convener, Engr. Lawrence Ankpa, the group said it was disappointed by Ajaka’s remarks, describing them as ill-conceived.
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Ankpa recalled that members of the group had previously supported Ajaka’s 2023 governorship ambition, including hosting him in Lagos and sending representatives who made financial contributions at his campaign fundraising event at Nicon Luxury Hotel, Abuja.
“It is unfortunate that a man whom the Igala people laboured for is now calling them faceless,” Ankpa said.
The group challenged Ajaka to publicly clarify his alleged involvement in the recent protest at the INEC headquarters, insisting that the organisers were known to him.
Igala Vanguard alleged that Ajaka distanced himself from the protest after the action failed to gain the expected political support, particularly in Kogi West.
The group also criticised Ajaka’s political record, arguing that his past actions had weakened his claim to political leadership in Kogi East.
Ankpa further accused the SDP candidate of betraying the interests of the Igala people by allegedly apologising to former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello after contesting the 2023 governorship election against Bello’s preferred candidate.
“By begging and apologising for standing against the former governor’s choice, Ajaka demonstrated a lack of political conviction. That act alone renders him unqualified to lay claim to the political leadership of Kogi East,” the statement said.