By Our Reporter
The Igala Youths Council Worldwide has called on youths, political leaders and community stakeholders in Kogi East and Kogi West to strengthen cooperation and pursue a common position on equitable political representation ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
The Council said unity between the two senatorial districts would be important in addressing concerns about historical exclusion and building a more inclusive political environment in Kogi State.
In a statement signed by its National President, Comrade Onogu Collins Monday, the organisation urged stakeholders to prioritise constructive engagement, justice and reconciliation in the ongoing debate over governorship rotation.
Council Seeks Inclusive Political Arrangement
The organisation expressed reservations about a recently circulated committee report on governorship rotation, arguing that the document did not adequately reflect the aspirations of the people of Kogi State.
It questioned the transparency of the consultation process and called for a more inclusive approach involving stakeholders from the state’s three senatorial districts.
The Council maintained that an acceptable political arrangement must address concerns about representation and ensure that the rotation debate does not become a source of further division.
Why Kogi East and Kogi West Matter
According to the Council, Kogi East should be considered first for the 2027 governorship because of its population, voting strength and what the organisation described as prolonged marginalisation.
It also identified Kogi West as deserving of consideration, noting that the district has never produced a governor since the creation of Kogi State.
The Council said these concerns should be addressed through dialogue and a commitment to fairness rather than political confrontation.
It further criticised the proposed 16-16-16 rotation formula, arguing that the arrangement might not adequately resolve historical imbalances.
The organisation maintained that political rotation should be designed to foster inclusion and strengthen public confidence in governance.
Second-Term Debate Raises Questions
The Council also raised concerns about what it described as the apparent advancement of a second-term agenda alongside proposals for rotation.
It argued that such a combination required clarification to ensure that political arrangements were not shaped primarily by the interests of particular groups.
The organisation called for sincerity and transparency in discussions about the state’s political future.
Peace Through Dialogue and Justice
The Igala Youths Council urged young people and political stakeholders across Kogi East and Kogi West to avoid divisive rhetoric and work towards a fair and mutually acceptable arrangement.
It said sustained engagement between the two districts could help promote reconciliation and reduce feelings of exclusion.
The Council reiterated that its preferred position was for governorship rotation to begin with Kogi East in 2027, while maintaining that Kogi West should also be considered in the interest of equity.
It stressed that sustainable peace would depend on a political process grounded in justice, transparency and inclusive representation.
The statement was signed by Comrade Onogu Collins Monday, National President of the Igala Youths Council Worldwide.