By Muhammed N A
Ankpa 1 State Constituency stands at a pivotal moment in its developmental history. Save 2011 to 2015 that I cannot give an account of its growth, the Constituency has always been represented by people of notable impact since the time of Rt. Hon. Abdullahi Ibrahim Ali Halims from 2007 to 2011. As easy as it is for members of the Kogi State House of Assembly to give reasons for their underperformance, Ankpa 1 State Constituency is always exempted because their representatives are fond of delivering above the minimum expectations of the electorates.
Exceptional leadership is rare, and when a representative delivers tangible development, continuity becomes a necessity rather than a choice. Perhaps, this is the reason why both Hon Abdullahi Ibrahim Ali Halims and Hon Ahmed Mohammed received clarion calls for a seamless continuity in 20211 and 2019 respectively, even though the former declined the offer. Fast forward to 2026, Hon. Akus Lawal has demonstrated that even in the face of scarcity, impactful governance is achievable through dedication, strategic vision, and a deep commitment to Constituency’s development. From Ankpa Ward 1 to Ankpa Suburb 2, between Ankpa Township and Ankpa Ward 2 as well as even in the least ‘gagorate’ area of Ankpa Suburb 1, there are signatures of Hon. Lawal Akus’ stewardship at the Kogi State House of Assembly. Interestingly, he doesn’t just execute on projects, he embarks on legacy initiatives. Thus, a second term will solidify these gains and ensure sustained progress.
Aware that the primary responsibility of a Legislator is to make laws, Hon. Lawal Akus has proven to be a formidable voice for not just his people, but the entirety of Kogi State through his sponsorship of the Kogi State Tenant Rights Act as a private member bill. A landmark achievement that in addition to other bills and motions sponsored by him, directly protects everyday citizens from exploitation, ensuring fairness and stability in housing. Securing a second tenure will therefore give him the leverage to sponsor even more impactful legislations.
Akus Lawal, a proud alumnus of Federal Government College Ugwolawo understands that education is the future of every society and to protect the future, you must first invest in the education of young pupils as His stewardship also includes the construction of some new classroom block for primary schools, widespread donation of basic educational materials as well as the payment of school fees for numerous students so as to relieve the financial burdens of parents/guardians.
The most unassuming of Hon Lawal Akus’ stewardship is his silent intervention in Public health and primary healthcare. His milestones in this regard are the construction of a Primary Healthcare Center with staff quarters at Akwu to ease accessible medical care for the community. Also, the provision of motorized boreholes across various communities has drastically improved access to potable water: a direct combatant of water-borne diseases while the renovation of the Ankpa abattoir(slaughter house) carried out by Hon Lawal Akus has greatly transformed it into a modern and hygienic slaughterhouse.
Beyond these physical projects, his consistent kind gesture and financial assistance to the less privileged have greatly eased life for many vulnerable constituents. By and large, I am sure that a second tenure for Hon. Lawal Akus at the Kogi State House of Assembly will be an upward trajectory for the constituency because a ranking member in the House enjoys greater influence, committee placements, and bargaining power to attract state resources. Having done well in the period under review, his re-election means to reinforce tested leadership, proven service and guaranteed continuation of constituency development.
– Muhammed Nasiru has decades of experience in Legislative engagements and can be reached via naadejohs@gmail.com
