The African Action Congress (AAC) in Kogi State refuted the recent claims made by certain news outlets, including the news blog thebureau.com.ng, on August 16, 2023. These reports inaccurately stated that the AAC had endorsed the candidate of the Accord Party for the forthcoming November 2023 governorship election in Kogi State.
The State Chairman of AAC in Kogi State, Able Monday Emmanuel, categorically asserted that neither the AAC nor its governorship candidate, Austin Abu Achimugu, has entered into any form of alliance with a political party or candidate, particularly the Accord Party.
Emmanuel condemned these reports as baseless and misleading, emphasizing that the AAC is committed to maintaining its independent status throughout the electoral process. He highlighted that the AAC and its candidate are fully engaged in the election campaign with the aim of securing victory.
Emmanuel further explained. “The claims of an alliance between AAC and the Accord Party are nothing but an absurd fabrication and a gross misrepresentation of our party’s stance. At no point did we entertain the idea of an alliance with any political entity.”
Regarding the alleged involvement of AAC members in the purported alliance, Emmanuel clarified, “Our preliminary investigations reveal that the Accord Party and its governorship candidate have been deceived by individuals who falsely claim to be affiliated with the AAC. We urge political entities to exercise due diligence and verify the credentials of those they engage with.”
Emmanuel issued a strong warning to media outlets spreading unfounded information, stating, “We demand accuracy and responsible journalism from news outlets. False reporting undermines the integrity of our electoral process and is against the principles of ethical journalism. We will take appropriate legal action if such misinformation continues.”
The AAC stood firm in its commitment to the democratic process and urges the public to disregard the erroneous reports. As the election approaches, the AAC reiterated its determination to present its own candidates and policies to the electorate.