The Kogi Concerned Group has cautioned the Chairman of Kabba-Bunu local government area, Barr. Zacchaeus Dare Michael, against speaking for the people of Kogi West senatorial district regarding the 2027 governorship race.
In a statement signed by Omolehin Thaddeus, the group expressed surprise at Barr. Dare’s “turn-by-turn arrangements” stance, saying Kogi State should present its best material in 2027.
The group backed Alhaji Abdulrazaq Isa Kutepa for governor, citing his rich profile and accomplishments, and emphasizes their agitation is centered on good governance.
“We the people of Kogi State agitating for Alhaji Abdulrazaq Isa Kutepa, our agitation is hinged on the profile and capacity to make Kogi State an example, is reason for the clamour,” the group said.
The group questioned Barr. Dare’s representation and urged him to focus on his stewardship as Council Chairman.
The statement highlighted Kutepa’s achievements as an oil mogul, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, including his leadership of Waltersmith Petroman Oil Limited, and his awards, including Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR).
“Kutepa’s company, Waltersmith Petroman, has successfully developed the Ibigwe field in Imo State, established a 5,000 bpd modular refinery, and is expanding to 40,000 barrels per day. He has also served as Chairman of the Independent Petroleum Producers Group (IPPG) and has supported science education and community development in Kogi State,” the group stated.
The group noted that Kutepa is a prominent figure in Nigeria’s energy sector with over 30 years of experience, and has been recognized as one of the “Movers and Shakers” of 2025.
The statement also detailed Kutepa’s educational background, professional experience, and membership in various professional bodies, including the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) and the Institute of Directors (IoD).
While noting that Kutepa is exposed, well grounded in human and capital development, added that he is rooted in Administration. The Group further add that Kogi is in dire need of a manager who can navigate and fix the enormous challenges facing the State, qualities he possess in abundance.
Kutepa’s philanthropic efforts, including providing clean water in Kogi State through his foundation, were also highlighted.
“Kogi State with it rich and abundant human and natural resources has been unfortunate with leadership, hence the need for experience laced with season administrators.
“We, therefore, based our agitation for a Kutepa Governorship on good and quality governance not turn by turn as proffered by one self styled person whose his performance was totally abysmal failure as Chairman.
“We urge the Chairman to mirror Lokoja the State Capital with other State Capital in the Country and do a comparison. Barr. Dare should tell us his yardsticks for comparison. The West deserves the best.”
