By Musa Tanimu Nasidi
As political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Kogi State, discussions surrounding zoning, alliances and power rotation have become more pronounced. Among the recurring arguments is the suggestion that Kogi West must enter into a “political marriage” with Kogi Central by supporting Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s second-term bid as the quickest route to producing the next governor.
While the argument has attracted attention, the reality is far more complex than the metaphor of a political marriage.
Kogi West’s quest for the governorship did not begin today. Since the creation of Kogi State in 1991, the district has consistently advocated fairness, equity and inclusiveness in the distribution of political power. The aspiration is rooted not in political bargaining but in the conviction that every senatorial district deserves an opportunity to lead the state.
The district remains the only zone with the numerical strength, political experience and geographical spread capable of contributing significantly to the state’s development when given the opportunity to produce the governor.
It is therefore inaccurate to suggest that Kogi West’s aspiration depends solely on an agreement with another senatorial district. Political support and cooperation are normal features of democratic politics, but they should not be mistaken for a binding marriage or a permanent political arrangement.
No constitutional or legally recognised pact exists that compels Kogi West to surrender its political future in exchange for promises of future support. Elections are determined by the will of the electorate, political parties, performance of candidates and prevailing political realities.
Indeed, Kogi politics has repeatedly demonstrated that alliances change with circumstances. Political friendships evolve, coalitions are renegotiated, and new partnerships emerge as elections approach. Describing such relationships as an irreversible marriage oversimplifies the realities of democratic competition.
Hon. Funsho Olumoko recently argued that supporting Governor Ododo’s second term represents the fastest route for Kogi West to realise its governorship ambition. While many may share that political calculation, it remains an opinion rather than an established political fact.
Support for Governor Ododo should therefore be assessed on the basis of his performance, policies and developmental agenda rather than solely as a ticket to future political rewards.
The argument that no senatorial district can produce a governor alone is largely correct. Kogi’s diversity makes consensus-building inevitable. Every successful governorship candidate must earn support across Kogi East, Central and West.
However, building consensus differs significantly from entering into a political marriage. Consensus is based on mutual respect, shared interests and democratic negotiations, while marriage suggests permanent obligations that may not exist in practical politics.
For Kogi West, the focus should remain on strengthening internal unity, presenting credible leadership, building bridges across the three senatorial districts and articulating a development agenda capable of attracting statewide support.
The district possesses experienced politicians, accomplished technocrats, respected traditional rulers and a vibrant youth population. These assets place it in a strong position to present a compelling governorship candidate when the opportunity arises.
Rather than depending exclusively on political assurances, Kogi West should continue engaging constructively with all parts of the state while maintaining its legitimate aspiration to produce the governor.
Ultimately, the 2027 governorship will not be determined by political slogans or declarations of marriage. It will be decided by strategic alliances, popular acceptance, credible candidates and the collective decision of the people of Kogi State.
Kogi West deserves the opportunity to lead the state—not because of any alleged political marriage with another district, but because equity, justice and democratic inclusion demand that every part of Kogi State should have a fair chance to occupy the state’s highest office.
– Musa Tanimu Nasidi writes from Lokoja.
