Muri Ajaka Biography: Age, State Of Origin, Court Case, Education, Career, Wife, Net Worth, Family
Muri Ajaka Biography
Murtala Yakubu Ajaka, also known as Muri Ajaka, is a prominent Nigerian politician and the gubernatorial candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) for Kogi State in the 2023 elections. Born on February 13, 1978, in Ajaka, Igalamela/Odolu Local Government Area of Kogi State, he has built a reputation as a dedicated public servant and leader.
Ajaka’s entry into politics was marked by his election as Deputy State Secretary of the now-defunct Action Congress (AC) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) chapter. He as held various significant roles, including serving as the National Assembly Liaison Officer and Head of Protocol for the All Progressives Congress (APC).
As a gubernatorial candidate, Muri Ajaka has positioned himself as a unifying figure in Kogi State politics, advocating for a peaceful, inclusive, and citizen-centered governance model. His campaign emphasizes the need for economic development, quality education, and security in Kogi State, with a vision of creating a state that thrives on equality and sustainable development.
Muri Ajaka Age
Murtala Yakubu is 46 years old as of 2024.
Muri Ajaka State of Origin
Muri Ajaka is from Kogi State, Nigeria. He hails specifically from Ajaka in Igalamela/Odolu Local Government Area of Kogi State.
Muri Ajaka Educational Background
Muri Ajaka’s educational background includes his early education at the Roman Catholic Mission (RCM) Primary School in Ajaka, followed by the Federal Polytechnic Staff School in Idah.
He continued his education at the prestigious Barewa College in Zaria, which is known for producing many notable Nigerian leaders. After completing his secondary education, Ajaka proceeded to the University of Abuja, where he earned a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) degree in Sociology.
Muri Ajaka Career
Muri Ajaka has established himself as a significant figure in Nigerian politics, particularly within Kogi State. His career trajectory is marked by a deep commitment to public service, grassroots engagement, and a dedication to improving the lives of his fellow citizens. His journey into the political landscape began early and has since seen him take on various influential roles. Let’s take a look at his career journey:
Early Political Involvement
Muri Ajaka’s entry into politics was both strategic and impactful. After completing his education, Ajaka ventured into the political arena by joining the now-defunct Action Congress (AC) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) chapter. His early involvement saw him elected as the Deputy State Secretary, a role that positioned him at the heart of political discourse and party administration. This position allowed him to develop a deep understanding of the political dynamics within the FCT and beyond, laying the groundwork for his future political engagements.
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Rise Within the All Progressives Congress (APC)
Ajaka’s political career took a significant turn with the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2013, following the merger of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), and the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC). Ajaka played a crucial role in the pre-merger discussions and content harmonization, which earned him a prominent position within the new party. He was appointed as the Head of Protocol for the APC, a role that further solidified his standing within the party.
National Assembly Liaison and Strategic Roles
In December 2006, Ajaka’s political acumen was recognized with his appointment as the National Assembly Liaison Officer for the Action Congress. This role placed him at the intersection of legislative and executive interactions, where he was responsible for coordinating communication and policy implementation between the party and the National Assembly. His effectiveness in this position was a testament to his deep understanding of legislative processes and his ability to foster collaboration across different arms of government.
Deputy National Publicity Secretary of APC
Ajaka’s rising profile within the APC culminated in his election as the Deputy National Publicity Secretary at the party’s National Convention on March 26, 2022. In this role, Ajaka was tasked with shaping the party’s public image and managing its communication strategy. His tenure was marked by a proactive approach to media relations and public engagement, ensuring that the APC’s policies and positions were effectively communicated to the Nigerian public.
Business Ventures and Philanthropy
Beyond politics, Muri Ajaka is also a successful businessman with interests in various sectors, including oil and gas, power and energy, and public sector procurement services. He chairs the boards of Yakubens Nigeria Ltd and MMB Petroleum and Chemical Company Ltd, which have provided him with extensive experience in managing large organizations and complex projects. His business success has enabled him to engage in philanthropic activities, particularly through his foundation, which supports widows and indigent students across Nigeria.
The 2023 Kogi State Gubernatorial Race
Muri Ajaka’s decision to run for the governorship of Kogi State under the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the 2023 elections marked a significant chapter in his political career. His campaign has been characterized by a message of change, renewal, and a commitment to citizen-centered governance. Ajaka has focused on issues such as economic development, quality education, and security, with a vision of creating a Kogi State that thrives on equality and sustainable development.
Muri Ajaka Controversy and Court Case
Muri Ajaka has been embroiled in a significant legal controversy following the election results. Ajaka contested the victory of Usman Ododo, the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who was declared the winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Ajaka and his party filed a petition challenging the election results, alleging irregularities, including overvoting. However, the Kogi State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal dismissed Ajaka’s petition, affirming Ododo’s victory. The tribunal ruled that the election was conducted in substantial compliance with the Electoral Act, and Ajaka’s claims were not sufficiently proven.
Despite this setback, Ajaka has continued to challenge the election results, taking his case to the Court of Appeal and eventually to the Supreme Court. He has expressed determination to pursue justice, arguing that his mandate was stolen and promising to fight until the end. As of August 2024, the Supreme Court had reserved judgment on his appeal, with Ajaka remaining hopeful that the final verdict would be in his favor.
Muri Ajaka Wife and Children
Muri Ajaka is happily married and has children, though details about his wife and children are kept relatively private.
Muri Ajaka Net Worth
Muri Ajaka’s net worth is not publicly disclosed.
FAQs
Who is Muri Ajaka?
Muri Ajaka, full name Murtala Yakubu Ajaka, is a Nigerian politician who ran for the governorship of Kogi State in the 2023 elections under the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
What are Muri Ajaka’s key political roles?
Ajaka has held several key roles, including Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and National Assembly Liaison Officer. He later became a prominent figure in the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
What controversy surrounds Muri Ajaka?
Ajaka has been involved in a legal battle challenging the results of the 2023 Kogi State gubernatorial election, which declared Usman Ododo of the APC as the winner. Ajaka’s petition was dismissed by the tribunal, but he continues to challenge the verdict in higher courts.
What is Muri Ajaka’s current legal status?
As of August 2024, Ajaka’s legal challenge is ongoing, with the Supreme Court having reserved judgment on his appeal against the tribunal’s decision that upheld Ododo’s election as governor of Kogi State.
What are Muri Ajaka’s business ventures?
Beyond politics, Ajaka is involved in various business sectors, including oil and gas, power and energy, and public sector procurement. He chairs the boards of Yakubens Nigeria Ltd and MMB Petroleum and Chemical Company Ltd.
