The Forum of Igala Journalists (FORIJA) has expressed profound disappointment in Prince Shuaibu Audu’s decision to spearhead the All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign for the upcoming November 11 governorship election in Kogi State. As the son of the beloved and esteemed leader, Prince Audu Abubakar, who was renowned for his integrity, dedication to good governance, and love for the Igala people, the FORIJA sees this move as a betrayal of his father’s legacy and the goodwill earned by their family.
Governor Yahaya Bello, whose third term bid Prince Shuaibu Audu is supporting, has been chastised by the FORIJA for presiding over a regime marked by corruption, incompetence, and repression. Bello’s governance has failed to fulfill the promises made by Prince Audu Abubakar, plunging the state into a spiral of debt and mismanagement.
The Igala people, under Bello’s rule, have endured immense suffering. The state’s economy is in disarray, with many Kogites grappling with financial hardships. Moreover, the state is rife with insecurity, driven by human-made violence and crime.
The FORIJA fervently urges Prince Shuaibu Audu to reconsider his stance and withdraw support for Bello’s candidate, Usman Ahmed Ododo. The FORIJA asserts that it is Prince Shuaibu Audu’s responsibility to honor his father’s legacy and stand against the inhumane practices perpetuated by Bello’s administration.
Additionally, the FORIJA calls on Prince Shuaibu Audu to leverage his platform to speak out against the injustices and oppression prevalent in Kogi State, stressing his responsibility to defend the rights of the Igala people.
Highlighting the necessity for a leader committed to honesty, competence, and the well-being of the Igala people, the FORIJA implores Prince Shuaibu Audu to support a candidate who genuinely represents the interests of the Kogi State populace.