Former Governor Yahaya Bello was widely referred to as the “White Lion” during his tenure as Governor of Kogi State. According to many of his former appointees and associates, he was known for making major political decisions independently throughout his years in office.
Today, as discussions intensify over the future of the Kogi Central Senatorial District seat, some political observers have begun referring to him as a “Supreme Leader” because of his perceived influence within the political structure of the district.
Many people across Kogi Central believe that the process of selecting the APC candidate should be transparent, fair, and consistent with the party’s established guidelines. Concerns have been raised by stakeholders regarding reports that some aspirants who did not participate in the party’s screening process may still be seeking to secure the party’s ticket.
There are also citizens who remain dissatisfied with aspects of the previous administration and believe that unresolved issues from that era deserve proper attention. Families and supporters of those who feel aggrieved by past political decisions are likely to consider those experiences when making future electoral choices.
A review of the history of senatorial representation in Kogi Central reveals the following:
- Senator Abdulsalami Yusuf (Robin) – Okene
- Senator Isa Aboyin Obaro – Okene
- Senator Pius Lasisi Adavi – Adavi
- Senator A.T. Ahmed (Two Terms) – Okene
- Senator M.S. Ohiare – Adavi
- Senator Salihu Otaru Ohize – Okene
- Senator Nuhudeen Abatemi – Okene
- Senator Ahmed Salawu Ogembe – Okene
- Senator Yakubu Oseni – Adavi
- Senator Abubakar Ohere – Okene
- Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan – Okehi (Incumbent)
Out of the eleven senatorial terms recorded in Kogi Central since the return of democratic rule, Okene Local Government Area has occupied the seat seven times, Adavi three times, while Okehi has produced a senator only once.
This reality underscores the need for fairness, equity, and inclusiveness in the distribution of political opportunities across Ebiraland. Every local government area deserves a genuine sense of belonging and adequate representation in the political leadership of the district.
As conversations about the 2027 senatorial election continue, many stakeholders believe that Okehi Local Government Area deserves serious consideration once again, given its strategic role in the development of Ebiraland and its limited opportunity to occupy the senatorial seat compared to other local governments.
Ultimately, the people of Kogi Central deserve a candidate who will unite the district, represent the interests of all communities fairly, and work toward the collective progress, stability, and prosperity of the region.
In the spirit of justice, fairness, and equity, the question remains: Should Okehi not be given another opportunity to continue its representation of Kogi Central?
– Comrade Ihiovi Mukhtar
Chairman, APC Aggrieved Youths Movement
