By Adeyemi Abidemi
The political climate in Kogi State raises important questions about the character of political leadership, the independence of elected representatives and the extent to which personal ambitions have overshadowed the responsibility of governance.
One of the major challenges confronting the state’s political landscape is the apparent inability of some politicians to uphold their convictions, defend their political beliefs and place the interests of the people above personal considerations.
Politics should be driven by principles, public service and accountability, not merely by the pursuit of political relevance or personal advantage. When political actors abandon their convictions for temporary gains, the consequences extend beyond individual careers to affect public confidence in democratic institutions.
Recent political developments in Kogi State have brought these concerns into sharper focus, particularly the continuing influence of former Governor Yahaya Bello in the state’s political affairs. While political alliances and realignments are legitimate features of democracy, elected officials and political stakeholders must retain the independence to make decisions based on their convictions and the interests of their constituents.
It is unfortunate that political disagreements, rivalries and struggles for influence appear to receive more attention than the pressing developmental challenges confronting the state.
Kogi State has considerable economic and human resources, yet many communities continue to grapple with insecurity, unemployment, poverty and inadequate infrastructure. Illegal mining, kidnapping and other security concerns have also raised questions about the effectiveness of governance and the protection of lives and property.
These challenges require serious political engagement, purposeful leadership and sustained public investment. They cannot be addressed through endless political confrontations or the struggle for positions and influence.
The greatest responsibility of political leaders is to provide solutions to the problems affecting their people. Unfortunately, political activities sometimes appear to take precedence over discussions about education, healthcare, roads, electricity, employment opportunities and rural development.
Politicians must therefore reconsider their priorities. Political office is a public trust, not a personal entitlement. Those entrusted with leadership positions must demonstrate courage, integrity and a willingness to defend the interests of their constituents, even when doing so becomes politically inconvenient.
For those seeking political relevance through constant alignment with powerful individuals, it is important to understand that political loyalty should not come at the expense of personal integrity and public responsibility. Political influence is temporary, but the consequences of decisions made in public office can endure for generations.
I remain convinced that Kogi State still has men and women of principle who believe in a better political future for the state. Such individuals must find common ground, rise above partisan divisions and work towards rebuilding public confidence in leadership.
The three senatorial districts—East, Central and West—have their respective political experiences and developmental concerns. The people of Kogi East deserve responsive leadership and sustained attention to their developmental challenges. Kogi Central requires an atmosphere where political participation is free from intimidation, while Kogi West deserves a political environment that respects the people’s aspirations, dignity and right to determine their future.
The development of Kogi State must not be reduced to the interests of a few political actors. Every senatorial district, local government and community deserves fairness, inclusion and accountable representation.
This is the time for political leaders to move beyond personal ambitions and embrace a new culture of political responsibility. The people must also demand more from those seeking their votes and support.
Ultimately, political power belongs to the people, and no individual or political group should consider itself greater than the collective interest of the state.
As the saying attributed to Amit Ray reminds us: “No matter how dark the tunnel, at the end there is always a light.”
I believe that with courage, unity and commitment to democratic values, Kogi State can overcome its present political challenges and build a future anchored on good governance, peace and development.
– Hon. Adeyemi Abidemi,
Former Minority Whip,
Kogi State House of Assembly (2011–2015).
