The Social Democratic Party in Kogi State has issued a strong disclaimer over a viral social media post by its State Publicity Secretary, Isaiah Davis Ijele, which reportedly criticised the outfit and public appearance of the revered traditional ruler, His Royal Highness Abubakar Sediq Ahmed, the Ejeh of Ankpa, insisting the comments were personal and do not reflect the party’s stance.
In a press statement signed by State Chairman Hon Ahmed Attah on Saturday, the SDP clarified that Ijele’s remarks were made in his individual capacity and bear no endorsement from the party at state or national levels.
“The comments expressed by Mr Isaiah Davis Ijele on his social media platform were made strictly in his personal capacity. They do not represent, reflect, or convey the position, views, or policies of the Social Democratic Party,” the statement read, adding that official communications are authorised and clearly identified.
The post, which circulated widely on Facebook and other platforms, sparked backlash for allegedly disrespecting the traditional institution in Ankpa Local Government Area, a key SDP stronghold in Kogi East during the 2023 elections.
Ijele in the post had called out Ejeh Ankpa over turban dressing, claiming the pattern of dressing is not inline with Igala culture and tradition. He noted that the king’s style of dressing is tilting towards the northern Emirs of Hausa and Fulani origin and not off a typical Igala custodian of culture. Online discussions and reactions suggested it mocked the Ejeh’s attire or public demeanor, leading to accusations of cultural insensitivity and political sabotage.
The discussions further linked the post to his party the SDP as some observers called out the party and urged it to caution Ijele.
The SDP further distanced its 2023 governorship candidate, Alhaji Yakubu Murtala Ajaka, from the incident, describing attempts to link him as “misleading, unfounded, and deliberately contrived to score political points.” The party expressed high esteem for the Ejeh and traditional institutions in Ankpa, appreciating the area’s overwhelming support in past elections.
“At no time has the SDP, either directly or by proxy, encouraged or condoned any action, statement, or conduct intended to demean, harass, or cast aspersions on the revered traditional institution of Ankpa or its Royal Father,” Attah stated.
The clarification comes amid broader political tensions in Kogi East, where traditional rulers play influential roles in community mobilisation. Party insiders suggest the incident could strain SDP’s grassroots alliances, particularly as Ajaka eyes future contests.
The SDP urged the public to dispel false narratives and reaffirmed its commitment to respectful engagement and cultural sensitivity. Ijele has not publicly responded to the disclaimer by press time.
