A brewing controversy regarding the distribution of key administrative appointments in Kogi State has ignited a fierce debate over equity, fairness, and the “Federal Character” principle at the state level.
Following the transition from the administration of Yahaya Bello to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, a detailed breakdown of 40 top-tier government positions has emerged, suggesting a heavy tilt toward a single ethnic group.
The data, which has been circulating widely among civil society groups and regional stakeholders, paints a picture of what critics are calling a “Winner-Takes-All” governance style.
The Numbers: A Deep Disparity
According to the analyzed list of 40 agencies, commissions, and parastatals, the ethnic distribution of leadership appears drastically lopsided:
Ethnic Group – Region Number of Appointments – Percentage (Approx.)
Ebira – 31 – 77.5%
Okun (Yoruba) – 3 – 7.5%
Igala – 1 – 2.5%
Others (Bassa, Lokoja/Koto, etc.) – 5 – 12.5%
The most jarring statistic cited by observers is that of the 31 positions held by the Ebira ethnic group, 27 heads of agencies reportedly hail from Okene Local Government Area alone.
A Breakdown of Key Portfolios
The concentration of power is most visible in the state’s financial and administrative engines. The positions of Chief of Staff, Accountant General, Head of Service, and Chairman of the State Intelligence and Economic Committee (BIR) are all held by individuals of Ebira descent.
Conversely, the Igala ethnic group—traditionally the largest demographic in the state—reportedly holds only one major position on this list: the State Auditor General. The Okun people of Kogi West currently head the Scholarship Board and the Christian Pilgrims Commission, but remain notably absent from the “core” economic decision-making seats.
“We Need to Be Rescued”
The lopsided nature of these appointments has triggered a wave of resentment among minority groups and the Igala majority. Spokespersons for various socio-cultural groups argue that this trend undermines the “New Direction” mantra promised by the government.
“Governance should be a reflection of our diversity,” says one community leader from Kogi East, who requested anonymity. “When you have 31 out of 40 agencies belonging to one tribe, it isn’t just an imbalance; it’s an exclusion of the rest of the state from the dividends of democracy.”
Critics argue that this “clannishness” in appointments could lead to:
Reduced Morale: Civil servants from “excluded” zones may feel there is a glass ceiling on their career progression.
Social Friction: Increased ethnic tensions between the three major blocks (IGALA, EBIRA, OKUN).
Policy Bias: Concerns that development projects and resource allocation will naturally follow the administrative tilt.
The Government’s Stance
While the Governor’s office has yet to issue a formal rebuttal to this specific list, supporters of the administration often argue that appointments are based on “competence and loyalty.” They maintain that Governor Ododo is focused on consolidating the gains of his predecessor and ensuring a seamless execution of state policies.
However, as the list continues to gain traction, the pressure is mounting on the administration to demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity. In a state as ethnically diverse as Kogi, the perception of “ethnic capture” of the state machinery is a political fire that may be difficult to put out.
It is said that people who feel oppressed often end up becoming oppressors when given unchecked opportunities and power. It’s one of the oldest patterns in history. Victimhood becomes entitlement.
Entitlement becomes domination. And before you know it, you’ve recreated the same injustice you claim to be running from, only this time, you’re the one holding the whip.
This situation aptly captures the situation in Kogi State at the moment and many have stated that this is just the tip of the iceberg of the level of insane inequality in Kogi State.
– Ponle Adeniyi
ponleadeniyi457@gmail.com
