A former Kogi State governorship candidate, Murtala Ajaka, has publicly apologised to former Governor Yahaya Bello, calling for reconciliation, unity and renewed focus on the development of the state.
NewsWatch Nigeria reports that Ajaka, who contested the November 2023 governorship election on the platform of the Social Democratic Party, made the appeal in a statement issued on Monday.
He said the political tension that followed the election created divisions and strained relationships, especially between him and the former governor.
Ajaka said the disagreement between him and Bello was driven by political passion rather than personal hatred.
He said, “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.”
The former SDP candidate said he had decided to extend a hand of reconciliation in the interest of peace and development.
“Where my actions or words may have caused offence, I profoundly apologise in the spirit of reconciliation,” he stated.
Ajaka said he had chosen to move forward without resentment, stressing the need for healing and collective progress in Kogi State.
He appreciated his supporters across the state, including elders, youths and political associates, for standing by him during the 2023 governorship election.
He also paid tribute to supporters who lost their lives during the electioneering period, describing their sacrifice as significant and worthy of remembrance.
Ajaka urged political actors and citizens to place unity above division, saying the peace and stability of the state must come before personal ambition.
He said, “At this critical point in our state’s journey, no ambition or contest is greater than the peace and collective advancement of Kogi State.”
