Leaders from across Kogi West have renewed confidence in Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s leadership, endorsing him for a second term while outlining a coordinated plan to strengthen security in the district.
This consensus emerged on Monday at a high-level Leadership and Security Summit held in Kabba, where political actors, traditional rulers, youth groups and women leaders gathered to define the region’s priorities ahead of the 2027 election.
The summit was graced by the Obaro of Kabba and Chairman of the Okun Area Traditional Council, Oba (Dr) Solomon Dele Owoniyi, who led traditional rulers representing Okunland’s five local governments and the Ówóró communities.
In his keynote lecture, Emeritus Professor Olu Obafemi charted the historical trajectory of political representation in Kogi West, urging the district to approach its future with unity, clarity and strategic collaboration.
After hours of deliberation, participants issued a communique acknowledging the developmental gains recorded under Governor Ododo, particularly in infrastructure, governance reforms and security interventions.
They noted that the administration’s impact had significantly transformed the state’s physical landscape, bringing tangible relief to communities. This performance, they said, justifies the district’s decision to back Ododo for a second term in 2027.
The summit also reaffirmed Kogi West’s aspiration to produce the governor in 2031, arguing that the district has waited over three decades for its turn to lead the state.
Stakeholders condemned recent divisive remarks circulating in the political space, warning that such comments undermine the peace and unity required for the district to advance its long-term political goals.
To drive its resolutions, the summit announced the creation of three strategic bodies: a seven-member Council of Kogi West Traditional Rulers to interface with other districts; a seven-member Eminent Persons Group to champion political consultations; and a Joint Security Task Force to improve intelligence gathering, coordination and community vigilance across the seven LGAs. The task force will operate under the supervision of local government chairmen in the district.
