The political atmosphere in Kogi West has once again highlighted the delicate relationship between traditional institutions and partisan politics. Events surrounding the reported protest at the palace of the Obaro of Kabba over an alleged plan to endorse an aspirant for the All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial ticket have reignited debate about internal democracy and the proper role of royal fathers in political contests.
According to eyewitness accounts, youths and party supporters converged on the palace after reports circulated that traditional rulers were expected to endorse an aspirant ahead of the party’s formal processes. The protesters maintained that any endorsement outside the framework of the APC’s internal procedures could undermine the will of party members who participated in the primary election.
Although no official endorsement emerged from the meeting, the incident reflects growing anxiety within the party over transparency, fairness and respect for established democratic procedures. It also underscores the sensitivity surrounding the Kogi West Senatorial District, where political competition has intensified ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Traditional rulers occupy a revered position in Nigerian society. They are custodians of culture, symbols of unity and mediators during periods of conflict. Their influence extends beyond politics, making them indispensable partners in community development and peacebuilding. Precisely because of this moral authority, many citizens believe that royal institutions should remain above partisan political contests.
Those who protested at the palace argued that while they respected the traditional institution, they opposed any attempt to involve royal fathers in determining the outcome of party affairs. Their position reflects a broader concern that traditional institutions should not become arenas for political rivalry.
Another significant development came with reports that Senator Sunday Steve Karimi, who represents Kogi West Senatorial District, received his Certificate of Return from the APC National Secretariat. A source familiar with the process said the document affirms his emergence as the party’s candidate for the Kogi West Senatorial District, subject to compliance with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) guidelines and other statutory requirements.
Political analyst Adedayo Kola described the development as evidence that the party’s internal processes had prevailed over what he termed “reactionary efforts” to challenge the emergence of the incumbent senator. While such views remain partisan opinions, they reflect the sharp divisions that currently exist within the APC in Kogi West.
In a related development, unconfirmed reports also indicate that the senator representing Kogi East Senatorial District, Senator Jibrin Isah Echocho, has similarly received a Certificate of Return from the APC National Secretariat. However, the party had not officially confirmed the report as of the time of writing. If confirmed, Senator Echocho would emerge as the APC’s flag bearer for the Kogi East Senatorial District in the 2027 general election, in accordance with the party’s nomination process and INEC guidelines.
It is also noteworthy that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s office has not responded to allegations linking it to the reported endorsement plan, while the APC state chapter had not issued an official clarification at the time of writing. In journalism, silence should never be interpreted as admission; all parties deserve the opportunity to present their positions.
As the political season gathers momentum, party leaders must recognise that lasting unity cannot be built on perceptions of exclusion. Internal democracy remains the foundation of every credible political party. Where members believe that due process has been respected, they are more likely to accept outcomes, even when they disagree with them.
For traditional rulers, the lesson is equally important. Their greatest strength lies in their neutrality and ability to unite communities across political divides. Preserving that neutrality will continue to strengthen public confidence in the traditional institution.
Ultimately, the Kogi West episode should serve as an opportunity for reflection rather than confrontation. Political parties must respect their constitutions, aspirants must pursue their ambitions within established rules, and traditional institutions should remain symbols of unity rather than participants in partisan contests. Only then can democracy flourish while preserving the dignity of Nigeria’s cherished traditional institutions.
– Musa Tanimu writes from Lokoja.
