In a major move towards resolving the lingering internal crisis rocking the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kogi State, a frontline party leader and respected technocrat, Dr. Tim Nda Diche, on Wednesday honoured the invitation of the APC Peace, Conflict Reconciliation Committee headed by former Governor, Captain Idris Ichalla Wada.
The crucial meeting was held at the Kogi State Government Liaison Office, Asokoro, Abuja.
The Wada-led committee was inaugurated by the Kogi State APC leadership to interface with aggrieved members, warring factions and critical stakeholders across Kogi East, Central and West, with a mandate to restore unity and give every member a sense of belonging.
Dr. Tim Nda Diche, who is one of the most respected voices from Kogi East and a bridge-builder across the state, arrived at the venue to loud cheers from supporters who described him as “a man of peace and principle.”
A source who was at the closed-door session told our correspondent that Dr. Diche spoke frankly and passionately about the need for genuine reconciliation, not cosmetic peace.
According to the source: “Dr. Diche told the committee that APC in Kogi needs healing. He said many members feel excluded, injured and neglected after giving their all for the party’s victory.
He called for justice, inclusiveness and a reward system that recognizes loyalty and hard work.”
He reportedly urged the committee to be bold in telling truth to power and to ensure that its final report reflects the true wishes of grassroots members, not just a few power brokers.
Responding, the Chairman of the Committee, Capt. Idris Ichalla Wada, thanked Dr. Diche for honouring the invitation and described him as a man whose opinion is highly valued in Kogi politics.
Wada assured that the committee will be fair, neutral and firm, adding that its goal is to produce a report that will bring lasting peace, not temporary ceasefire.
“We are here to listen to everyone. No one is too big or too small. Our assignment is to rebuild Kogi APC into one united, formidable family,” Wada was quoted as saying.
Political analysts say Dr. Diche’s appearance is significant for three reasons:
1. He is a Voice of Kogi East: As a prominent leader from the Eastern Senatorial District, his position carries weight.
2. He is a Technocrat, Not a Factionalist: He is seen as neutral, respected by both old and young members.
3. He Represents The Silent Majority: Many aggrieved but quiet members see him as their representative at the reconciliation table.
Meanwhile, news of Dr. Diche’s appearance before the committee has generated excitement among APC supporters in Bassa/Dekina local Govt. Areas and Kogi East. Many said his presence gives them hope that the reconciliation will not be swept under the carpet.
“We trust Dr. Tim Nda Diche. He will speak the truth. He will tell them that Kogi East has been marginalized and that something must be done,” a party youth leader from Dekina said.
