2027: Kogi East Elders Forum Warns Against Imposition, Rejects Echocho’s Third Term Bid

The Kogi East Elders Forum (KEEF) has rejected any move to introduce a third-term agenda in the senatorial district.

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KEEF, under the leadership of Elder Simon Ocheje, in a statement on Monday, emphasized the need to uphold fairness, justice, and long-standing political arrangements within the region.

The Forum insisted that the accepted benchmark for representation in Kogi East remains eight years.

“This principle has over time ensured political balance, unity, and inclusiveness, while giving all constituent areas equal opportunity to contribute to leadership and development of the geo-political zone, the elders said.

The Forum recalled that past senators from the district have adhered to this arrangement. Senator Nicholas Yahaya Ugbane served two terms from 2003 to 2011, while Senator Atai Aidoko Ali also served two terms between 2011 and 2019.

They noted that the current senator, Jibrin Isah (Echocho), elected in 2019 and re-elected in 2023, is now in his second term, and any discussion of a third term runs contrary to the established rotational understanding.

The elders further pointed out that Dekina Local Government Area has already produced a senator for eight years on two separate occasions, insisting that equity demands other areas be given the same opportunity. They warned that extending tenure beyond the accepted structure could undermine unity and stability in the district.

They also urged all aspirants to present their scorecards and achievements, allowing the people to objectively assess their competence, credibility, and capacity to deliver.

According to the Forum, leadership should be based on proven performance and commitment to development.

Additionally, the elders called on party leadership at the national level to respect the will of Kogi East stakeholders by allowing them the freedom to choose their representatives, cautioning against the imposition of candidates which could weaken democratic values and alienate the grassroots.

The Forum appealed to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, former Governor Yahaya Bello, and other key stakeholders to act in the interest of justice, fairness, and peace, ensuring that the long-standing rotational arrangement is preserved.

The Kogi East Elders Forum reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to equity, justice, and the unity of the district.

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