The political atmosphere in Kogi West is heating up again, and—unsurprisingly—the familiar names are returning to the center stage. For a zone that has contributed significantly to Kogi’s democratic evolution since 1999, one would expect a more refined political conversation, one driven by vision, innovation and collective progress. Sadly, recent developments suggest otherwise.
It is no longer news that Senator Smart Adeyemi, a two-term senator from Ijumu Local Government, is once again positioning himself for the Kogi West senatorial seat come 2027. What is generating concern, however, is the perception—rightly or wrongly—that his ambition is being fueled less by public demand and more by private political assurances, allegedly including a promise from former Governor Yahaya Bello.
Political analysts across the district have described such assurances—if true—as “desperation of the highest order,” insisting that any arrangement that attempts to circumvent the established rotational expectations of the zone is “political suicide” and potentially destabilizing. The sentiment on the ground is that the supposed promise is dead on arrival in a district already struggling to maintain internal equity.
A Familiar Pattern, an Unsettling Strategy
Reports emerging from within the APC suggest that Senator Adeyemi recently plans to convened a meeting where attendees were issued textile materials, allegedly to encourage attendance and mobilize political goodwill. An insider who preferred anonymity noted that many invited / to be attendees of the meeting “will turn off to collect the largesse,” not necessarily because they believed in the project.
Observers have described the move as yet another example of what they call Senator Adeyemi’s “over-ambition,” a political appetite that appears to stretch beyond what the current reality of Kogi West politics can sustain.
Adding to this, fresh indications reveal that Senator Smart Adeyemi is set to convene yet another strategic political meeting—this time in his Ijumu country home. According to insiders, invitations have already been quietly circulated, signaling a renewed push toward reviving his 2027 senatorial ambition. Stakeholders say the choice of venue is deliberate, aimed at projecting strength on familiar territory. Yet critics argue that the move may deepen existing tensions in Kogi West, especially at a time when many are calling for zoning fairness and a more inclusive political direction. Rather than unifying the district, observers fear the gathering may further entrench the perception of over-ambition and entitlement surrounding the senator’s latest political calculations.
The Equity Argument: Who Speaks for Kogi West?
One of the most consistent arguments emerging from stakeholders is the question: Is Senator Smart Adeyemi the only qualified person in Kogi West?
Certainly not.
Kogi West is rich with competent, experienced and widely respected individuals across Yagba, Lokoja–Koto, Ijumu, Kabba–Bunu and beyond. The district deserves a representation that reflects its diversity, not the recycling of a narrow political class.
It is this same sentiment that fuels the call for fairness:
Yagba Federal Constituency should be allowed to complete its two-term senatorial rotation;
thereafter, Lokoja–Kogi Federal Constituency should rightfully take its turn.
This rotational understanding is not merely political courtesy—it is the glue that has kept Kogi West united.
Karimi’s Rising Profile vs. Adeyemi’s Persistence
To many APC stalwarts and residents of the western senatorial district, Senator Steven Sunday Karimi has performed creditably since assuming office. His calm disposition, project footprints and inclusive engagement style have earned him goodwill across political divides.
Some even argue that Karimi alone outperforms “Smart Adeyemi and Dino Melaye combined”—a bold claim, yet one that mirrors the mood of grassroots supporters who feel Karimi brings a refreshing stability to the zone’s politics.
Given this, many believe any attempt by Smart Adeyemi to re-enter the race at this time not only undermines the rotational spirit but also risks reopening old political wounds that Kogi West has worked hard to heal.
A Call for Reflection, Not Recycling
Kogi West needs justice, equity and purposeful representation.
The district cannot continue to recycle ambitions that do not align with the collective interest of the people. The struggle for power shift within the state demands unity from the West—not the distraction of personal political quests.
Those working “round the clock” to truncate this agenda, as some stakeholders warn, are doing a disservice to the zone.
For Senator Smart Adeyemi, perhaps this is the moment for quiet reflection. The time has come to channel his influence, resources and experience into economic empowerment, community development and the upliftment of his constituents—not another political adventure widely considered futile.
Kogi West deserves more. Kogi West deserves balance. Kogi West deserves leadership that listens. And above all, Kogi West deserves a future not anchored on the past.
– Ibrahim Ahmad writes from Lokoja.
