Political tension continues to mount across Kogi East Senatorial District as stakeholders from Idah Federal Constituency intensify their demand to produce the next senator, warning that protests may erupt if their position is ignored.
Leaders and opinion shapers from the constituency have maintained a united stance, insisting that justice, equity, and political balance demand that Idah be given the senatorial ticket in the next electoral cycle.
Their agitation, which has been gaining momentum, is rooted in what they describe as decades of marginalization despite consistent political loyalty.The stakeholders argue that since the return of democracy in 1999, Idah Federal Constituency has not enjoyed fair representation at the Senate. They pointed out that the only time the constituency came close was during the brief six-month tenure of Barr. Dangana Ocheje—an experience they insist cannot be considered adequate representation.
“This is about fairness and recognition of our contribution to the political success of Kogi East,” a prominent stakeholder stated. “We have waited patiently, supported the party loyally, and now it is our turn.”
While acknowledging that the current Deputy Governor of Kogi State hails from Ofu Local Government Area—one of the local governments within Idah Federal Constituency—the stakeholders were quick to clarify that this does not address their core demand.
According to them, the deputy governorship position, though significant, is an executive role that does not replace the legislative voice and representation that comes with a senatorial seat. They stressed that political offices should not be seen as interchangeable when it comes to zoning and equitable distribution.
“Yes, the Deputy Governor is from Ofu, which is part of our federal constituency, but that does not equate to giving Idah Federal Constituency its rightful place in the Senate,” another community leader explained.
“The Senate is where laws are made and where our collective interests must be strongly represented.”
The agitation is also taking on a political dimension, as stakeholders warn that ignoring their demand could have serious consequences for the electoral fortunes of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the area. They caution that grassroots support, which has historically contributed to the party’s victories, may no longer be guaranteed if the constituency is sidelined again.
“There is a limit to patience,” one youth leader remarked. “If our voices are not heard, it will be difficult to mobilize our people the way we have always done. Politics is about inclusion, and we must be included.”
Observers believe that the situation presents a delicate challenge for party leaders, who must now navigate competing interests within Kogi East while maintaining unity ahead of future elections. The possibility of protests and internal dissent could weaken party cohesion if not properly managed.
Some political analysts have called for urgent dialogue, urging party leadership to engage directly with stakeholders from Idah Federal Constituency to address their concerns and find a balanced solution.
“This is a classic case of zoning expectations versus political realities,” an analyst noted. “The leadership must act swiftly to prevent escalation. Listening to the grievances of Idah stakeholders and finding a compromise will be key to sustaining unity.”
There are also fears that opposition parties could capitalize on the growing dissatisfaction to make inroads into Kogi East, particularly if the ruling party fails to resolve the issue amicably.
As events continue to unfold, the demand from Idah Federal Constituency remains firm and unwavering: the next senator representing Kogi East must come from their axis. For them, anything short of that would not only be unacceptable but could redefine political alignments in the constituency.
The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether dialogue prevails over confrontation, or whether the looming protests become a defining feature of Kogi East’s political landscape.
– Ojodomo Omachonu
Ibaji Local Government Area of Kogi State
