Due to paucity of data in Nigeria, there is possibility of variance to some of the submission contained in this piece, but I will provide some general insights based on the available information and data from NBS. It will be obvious to all if the situation have changed in recent times.
Under Governor Yahaya Bello, the situation in Kogi State has been subject to different interpretations and opinions. Some claim that there have been improvements in certain areas, while others express concerns about the state’s governance and development. But in all, this administration may the worse in the history of Kogi state; given the experiences of LGA staff and their continued percentage salary, the very deplorable, inexcusable, knavish and atrocious look of Lokoja township (the state capital), and very nefarious state of Okun roads among other issues.
Salary: it’s a known fact that the state is overwhelmed with salary arrears, delayed salary payment, and percentage payment for civil servants in Kogi State during Governor Bello’s tenure. These issues have caused dissatisfaction among workers, leading to strikes, protests at times and even deaths of many pensioners across the state. Unfortunately, it is important to note that the situation should have changed, but the government has decided to pay lip service in addressing the salary payment challenges despite receiving several bailouts, oil producing state allocation, intervention funds, and several loan transactions ~ NBS.
Economy: Kogi State is known for its agricultural potential, particularly in areas like rice production, solid minerals, and natural resources. Governor Bello’s administration has aimed to promote agriculture and attract investment to the state. Efforts was perceived to have been made to revive the state’s moribund industries, although the impact on the overall economy is yet to see any light. According to NBS, Kogi state under GYB didn’t receive any FDI in seven years which could have helped in driving massive infrastructural development across the state. Beyond the rhetorics of receiving few Chinese firms and pictures displayed to attract few media patronage, nothing concrete has happened to the state economic development in seven years – only a witty-witty display of arrogance and lack of seriousness. Kogi state is potentially positioned to generate an average of N20Billion monthly on IGR with more than 300 thousand jobs annually, and over 1Million indirect jobs across the three senatorial districts.
Infrastructure: Infrastructure development in Kogi State has been a topic of concern. Some criticize the state government for alleged lack of progress in key areas such as road construction, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions. However, the government has also initiated various infrastructural projects, including road rehabilitation and construction but mostly located in the Central senatorial districts which might have positively impacted the governor’s kinsmen and drive some infrastructure imbroglio within the area. However, Kogi west seems to be driving the awareness of the governor’s projects across central senatorial district – I suppose we are experts in doing this.
It is important to note that these observations are based on general information available in the public domain including data received from NBS, and individual experiences may vary. For a comprehensive and up-to-date assessment, it is advisable to vote in an individual who will help to unearth the true state of affairs in Kogi State and Governor Yahaya Bello’s tenure.
Going forward, what are the chances of electing an Okun man to pilot the affairs of Kogi stage in the next four years, effective January 2024?
Whether or not Okun people will produce a governor in Kogi state depends on various factors, including political dynamics, voter preferences, candidate qualities, and the overall political landscape. It is possible for any group or community to produce a governor if they have strong political representation, popular candidates, and support from the electorate. Let us X-tray the opportunities and disadvantages as follow:
Opportunities
1. Political Representation: If the Okun people have a significant population and organized political representation, they can advocate for their interests and increase their chances of producing a governor. I believe Okun people have to intensify effort by focusing on how to galvanize more support and voters across the state, instead of investing the precious time on few transactional leaders who NEVER believe in GYB for seven years but are suddenly running to him as their god – they don’t worth the energy in my opinion.
2. Unity and Mobilization: If the Okun people can unite and mobilize their community, they can create a strong electoral force that can influence the outcome of elections. The focus should largely be on the electorates and not the so called “ragamophic leaders” who only go home for vote buying on election days without any significant impact on the lives of the electorates post election.
3. Qualification and Popular Candidates: If the Okun people can put forward qualified and popular candidates who can appeal to a broad range of voters, they have a higher chance of producing a governor. As it stands, there are three main contenders but only one gladiator. Okun people must emcourage the two other contenders to please support the main gladiator or the electorates could be encouraged to do the needful.
Disadvantages
1. Political Competition: Kogi state is a diverse state with various ethnic groups, and competition for political positions is high. This could pose a challenge for the Okun people in producing a governor. Okun people must admit the competitive toughness of this coming election and be well prepared to face the turbulent challenges ahead. Hence, Okun candidate(s) mustn’t look down on any candidate for Okun to emerge victorious in November.
2. Limited Resources: Political campaigns often require substantial financial resources. If the Okun people have limited access to resources compared to other groups, it may be a disadvantage in their pursuit of producing a governor. Hence, all Okun Sons and Daughters must rally round the main gladiator from Okun land and provide the needed financial support to make this project a great reality.
3. Political Dynamics: Political dynamics, alliances, and power-sharing arrangements within the state can impact the chances of any particular community producing a governor. These factors may or may not align favorably for the Okun people. Hence, Okun must see beyond political parties and be very intentional about the choice of candidate.
It’s essential to note that these are general considerations and do not specifically predict the future outcome in Kogi state. Local and current circumstances will play a significant role in determining whether Okun people will produce a governor or not. Remember all Okun sons and daughters have roles to play in ensuring the emergence of a credible, dependable and God given man to emerge the next Governor of Kogi State.
– Amb. Olusiji Aina, FIIM, CGPA
Development Economist, Impact Investing Specialist and Climate Change Enthusiast.
