By Musa Bakare.
The call is no longer a whisper exchanged in private gatherings or a sectional demand voiced in isolation. It has become a loud, legitimate, and morally compelling declaration that deserves to resonate across Kogi State, throughout Nigeria, and beyond: Kogi West must produce the next governor of Kogi State.
Since the creation of Kogi State in 1991, the principles of fairness, equity, and political balance have served as the foundation of peaceful coexistence among its diverse senatorial districts. Kogi East and Kogi Central have at different times, occupied the governorship seat. Yet, decades later, Kogi West remains patiently sidelined from the highest office in the state, despite its immense contributions to the political, economic, and intellectual development of the state.
This persistent exclusion is not only unjust; it is unsustainable.
Kogi West is home to some of the most industrious, educated, and politically conscious citizens in the state. From seasoned technocrats and administrators to grassroots mobilizes and policy thinkers, the zone has consistently produced men and women who have served Kogi State with distinction at both state and national levels. What has been lacking is not competence, capacity, or commitment; it is opportunity.
Those who argue that leadership should be determined by a 16 year rotational trajectory are, in truth, making a mockery of democracy. Such arguments conveniently ignore historical facts. Kogi East has produced governors for well over 16 years. Kogi Central, which currently holds power, has equally exercised executive leadership, four years in the old Kwara State era, eight years under Yahaya Bello, and now four years under Governor Usman Ododo, amounting to 16 years in total.
Capacity does not exist in a vacuum. Leadership competence flourishes where opportunity is granted. To deny Kogi West its rightful chance while preaching merit and fairness is a contradiction that must be confronted honestly.
Beyond the moral imperative lies a strategic argument. The unity, stability, and progress of Kogi State depend on every component feeling a sense of belonging. When a significant part of the state is perpetually sidelined, frustration deepens, trust erodes, and confidence in the democratic process diminishes. Rotational justice is not a favour to be granted; it is a necessary instrument for sustainable governance and enduring peace.
Let it be stated clearly: this call is not an attack on any other senatorial district. It is not born out of bitterness or rivalry. Rather, it is a principled demand for inclusion, fairness, and justice, values that form the bedrock of democracy. A Kogi State governed by a son or daughter of Kogi West will not belong to Kogi West alone; it will belong to every citizen of the state.
As the 2027 political season approaches, political parties, stakeholders, traditional rulers, opinion leaders, and the youth must rise above narrow interests and embrace history, equity, and logic demand. The time has come to correct a long-standing imbalance and write a new chapter in the story of Kogi State.
Let the whole world hear it today, without apology or ambiguity:
Kogi West must produce the next governor of Kogi State.
History will remember those who stood for justice and those who stood in its way.
– Musa Bakare is a foundation member of the APC and political analyst. He writes from Lokoja, Kogi State.
