Allowing Kogi West to produce the next governor would strengthen the sense of belonging among the state’s diverse ethnic groups
By Abike Jimoh
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Published on July 26, 2026
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2 min read
The Kogi Equity Movement (KEM) has called for the governorship of Kogi State to be ceded to the Yoruba-speaking Okun people of Kogi West Senatorial District in the 2027 governorship election, arguing that the move would promote equity, fairness and inclusive governance.
The group said the 2027 election presents an opportunity to address what it described as years of political imbalance and ensure that all parts of the state have a fair chance at producing the governor.
In a statement issued by its Convener, Arc. Amdii Amdii Zaguru, KEM maintained that the Okun people possess the leadership capacity, population and vision needed to provide effective governance and accelerate the state’s development.
According to Zaguru, the campaign for an Okun governor is rooted in the principles of justice, unity and equal representation, rather than sectional interests.
He said allowing Kogi West to produce the next governor would strengthen the sense of belonging among the state’s diverse ethnic groups and reinforce confidence in the democratic process.
“The quest for an Okun governor is driven by the need to ensure justice, foster unity and give every section of the state a sense of belonging,” he stated.
Zaguru also expressed concern over what he described as the prolonged neglect of Bassa Local Government Area, saying the area deserves greater inclusion in governance and development initiatives.
He said an administration led by an Okun governor would prioritise infrastructure development, improved security, job creation and enhanced social services across underserved communities, including Bassa Local Government Area.
The movement appealed to political leaders, traditional rulers, youths, women and civil society organisations across Kogi East, Kogi Central and Kogi West Senatorial Districts to support the emergence of an Okun governor in the 2027 governorship election.
According to the group, such support would advance peace, equity and sustainable development across the state.
KEM further disclosed that it would commence statewide consultations, grassroots mobilisation and engagements with key stakeholders in the coming weeks to build support for what it described as a campaign for political equity in Kogi State.
The group expressed optimism that broad-based dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders would help shape a more inclusive political future for the state ahead of the 2027 polls.
