‎Atiku demands answers from INEC over 2027 ballot printing contracts, key appointments. ‎

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has demanded that the Independently National Electoral Commission, INEC, disclose details of contracts for printing sensitive election materials ahead of the 2027 general elections and explain reported changes in key departments.

‎Mr Atiku also asked the commission to confirm or deny reports that Hitech or companies associated with it had been awarded contracts to print sensitive election materials, warning that secrecy surrounding the process could undermine public confidence in the polls.

‎In a statement issued on Sunday by Phrank Shaibu, Director of Strategic Communication of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, Presidential Campaign Council, Mr Atiku called for the publication of the names of companies engaged by INEC, the procurement methods used and the security arrangements governing the production, storage and delivery of election materials.

‎The former vice-president said reported changes in the commission’s Electoral Operations Department and other key units required urgent clarification.

‎Reports indicate that Isa Magaji Gum, formerly director of Electoral Operations, had been redeployed to the Voter Registry Department, while Oluyemi Titilayo Adeyemi-Showunmi was appointed to head Electoral Operations.

‎Dr Lawrence Bayode was also identified as the head of the Information and Communication Technology department.

‎Mr Atiku said the departments were central to election administration and urged INEC to explain the criteria for the appointments and redeployments.

‎“These departments are at the heart of election administration. INEC must explain these decisions, publish the criteria applied and show that every appointment and redeployment followed due process, was based on merit and was free from political interference. Nigerians will not accept vague assurances on matters this serious,” he said.

‎He, however, cautioned against presuming that any official was compromised because of their ethnicity, background or associations.

‎Mr Atiku said reported political connections or concerns about the concentration of appointments required the commission to provide verifiable assurances that its impartiality would be protected.

‎He also linked the concerns to the economic policies of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, arguing that public dissatisfaction with the government should not be allowed to influence the conduct of the 2027 elections.

‎The former vice-president said the combination of reported changes in sensitive departments and unanswered questions over major contracts could fuel suspicions that the government was seeking an electoral advantage.

‎He urged INEC to dispel such concerns through full and verifiable disclosure.

‎Mr Atiku also demanded clarification over reports that more than half of INEC’s sensitive election materials, including materials relating to the presidential ballot, might have been allocated to a company whose identity and credentials had not been publicly disclosed and which was believed to be based in France.

‎He further expressed concern over reports that the Nigerian Security Printing and Minting Plc (NSPMC) might be responsible for printing election materials for only 15 to 17 states, with private companies handling the remaining assignments.

‎The former vice-president said INEC should publish the names of all companies engaged for the exercise, the materials and states assigned to each, the procurement methods adopted and the security clearances obtained.

‎He also called for details of the safeguards governing the production, storage and delivery of the materials.

‎“These reports demand urgent and unequivocal answers. INEC must confirm or deny them and publish the names of every company engaged, the materials and states assigned to each, the procurement method, the security clearances obtained and the safeguards governing production, storage and delivery,” he said.

‎“Nigerians should not have to depend on unnamed sources to discover who is producing their ballots.”

‎Mr Atiku specifically questioned the possibility of Hitech or a company associated with it handling the printing of sensitive election materials, citing publicly reported business ties between the Chagoury family, which owns Hitech, and the Tinubu family.

‎He argued that any such contract would raise concerns about the neutrality of the electoral commission.

‎“The integrity of INEC in the forthcoming election will be seriously compromised if Hitech or a company associated with it is awarded a contract to produce sensitive election materials,” he said.

‎Mr Atiku added that INEC had a responsibility to disclose the identities of companies awarded the contracts, particularly if the printing was not being handled by the NSPMC.

‎He also cited the controversy surrounding major contracts awarded to Hitech under the Tinubu administration, including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, which the government has defended as having been awarded through a special procurement process.

‎He urged INEC to disclose the value, scope and procurement method of any contract awarded to Hitech or an affiliated company, alongside details of the firm’s capacity and security arrangements.

‎Mr Atiku further called for political parties to be given a meaningful opportunity to scrutinise the process under appropriate safeguards.

‎He said that if neither Hitech nor any company associated with it had been selected, INEC should issue a clear statement to that effect.

‎The former vice-president also urged the commission to maximise the use of qualified domestic security-printing capacity and establish a transparent chain of custody for ballot papers, result sheets and other sensitive election documents.

‎He extended his concerns to the printing of higher-denomination banknotes by foreign companies, saying the practice raised questions about the protection and utilisation of Nigeria’s security-printing capacity.

‎He called on the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to disclose its current printing allocations and explain the roles assigned to the NSPMC and any foreign contractors.

‎Warning against electoral malpractice, Mr Atiku said the 2027 elections must be conducted transparently and that INEC officials would be held accountable for their actions.

‎He said Nigerians facing economic hardship would resist any attempt to undermine their votes through legitimate, peaceful and democratic means.

‎“Let there be no mistake: Nigerians will not accept a stolen election. Any attempt to rig the 2027 polls will be met with determined resistance through the ballot, lawful civic action, and every other democratic channel available to the people,” he said.

‎“INEC officials must understand that the country is watching and that they will be held accountable for their conduct.”

‎Mr Atiku said the ADC would closely monitor preparations for the elections and alert domestic and international observers to any lack of transparency in the handling of sensitive election materials.

‎He insisted that the commission must demonstrate fairness and accountability at every stage of the electoral process rather than rely on assurances.

‎“Nigerians are entitled to demand answers.

Salman Idris Congratulates Kabba-Bunu Chairman on Birthday, Hails Performance.

 

The member representing Kabba-Bunu/Ijumu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Salman Idris has congratulated the Executive Chairman of Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area, Hon. Zacchaeus Dare Michael on the occasion of his birthday.

In a congratulatory statement personally signed by him, Hon. Idris described the council chairman as a forward-thinking leader whose performance in office reflects his commitment to effective grassroots governance and community development.

The federal lawmaker commended Dare for his resilience and determination in delivering on his mandate, noting that he had continued to demonstrate capacity for leadership despite prevailing challenges.

According to him, the chairman's interventions in critical sectors, particularly security, healthcare and infrastructural development have contributed to addressing the needs of residents across the local government area.

Hon. Idris further praised Dare for striking a balance between local government administration and grassroots political engagement, describing him as a man of his word whose commitments are backed by action.

He noted that the chairman's approach to governance demonstrates the importance of purposeful leadership, accountability and responsiveness to the needs of the people.

The federal lawmaker prayed to Almighty God to grant Dare good health, long life and renewed strength to continue serving humanity, expressing hope that he would be entrusted with greater responsibilities in the future.

He wished the council chairman a fulfilling birthday celebration and many more years of impactful service to the people of Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area and beyond.

‎Kogi Councilor Dies After Days in Captivity ‎

 

‎The councillor representing Ogugu Ward III in Olamaboro Local Government Area of Kogi State, Rosemary Aduku, has reportedly died after spending days in captivity.

‎Her death was announced in a statement by the Chairman of Olamaboro Local Government Area, Dr Ameh Williams, on behalf of the Olamaboro Executive Council, on Friday.

‎Williams was however silent on the type of captivity she was being held until her death

‎In the death and burial announcement, Williams described the late councillor, popularly known as Hon. Rosella among her colleagues, as a wonderful, humble and reliable person who was committed to making people around her happy.

‎The statement read, “It is with deep sorrow we announce the sudden demise of our dear sister and colleague Hon. Mrs Rosemary Aduku, the Honorable Councilor representing the good people of Ogugu Ward 3 in the 8 Olamaboro Legislative Council.

‎"Hon. Rosella as she is profoundly called among her colleagues in the council and members of the Olamaboro Executive Council has been a wonderful soul and down to earth.

‎"She has been a reliable fellow whose idea is to make everyone around her happy. Though your life was short lived but we will definitely take solace in your legacies and testimonies we have received since your demise.

‎The statement read, “It is with deep sorrow we announce the sudden demise of our dear sister and colleague Hon. Mrs Rosemary Aduku, the Honorable Councilor representing the good people of Ogugu Ward 3 in the 8 Olamaboro Legislative Council.

‎“At this point we pray that God Almighty continue to rest your soul, grant your entire family, members of the Olamaboro 8 Legislative Council, members of Olamaboro Executive Council and the entire Ogugu district the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.

‎“Adieu Hon. Mrs Rosemary Aduku. Burial is scheduled for 1pm prompt this afternoon at her family compound, Ogugu centre.

‎“We use this medium to invite All APC family to be part of the burial as we bid our sister a final farewell

‎

Abejide Pledges N500m Youth Empowerment, Backs Tinubu, Ododo for 2027.

 

The member representing Yagba Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Elder Leke Abejide, has pledged N500 million for a youth empowerment programme to help young people across the constituency establish and expand small-scale businesses.

Abejide made the commitment at his homecoming ceremony held at the Itodo Open Field in Yagba East Local Government Area of Kogi State, where he said the programme would cover youths across the 74 communities that make up the federal constituency.

He explained that the initiative was designed to provide young people with the resources and opportunities needed to become self-reliant, create jobs and contribute to the economic development of their communities.

The lawmaker also declared his support for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election and the second-term bid of Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo.

Abejide said his decision to support both leaders was informed by his conviction that their respective administrations were committed to policies and programmes that could advance development and improve the welfare of Nigerians and Kogites.

Earlier, the Secretary to the Kogi State Government, Dr. Folashade Arike Ayoade, welcomed Abejide to the homecoming and commended him for his sustained interventions in the constituency, particularly his support for widows and students.

Ayoade described the lawmaker's interventions as evidence of his commitment to improving the welfare of vulnerable members of the constituency while also supporting the educational aspirations of young people.

Also speaking, the Chairman of Yagba West Local Government Area and Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Kogi State Chapter, Hon. Tosin Olokun, assured Abejide of the support of the people for President Tinubu and the lawmaker ahead of the 2027 elections.

Olokun said the people had witnessed the impact of the APC-led administration and would continue to support leaders whose programmes and policies were geared towards development, economic growth and good governance.

Speaking with journalists at the event, Hon. Emmanuel Obaro urged youths in the constituency to unite and actively participate in the political process, describing the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the “winning team” ahead of the 2027 elections.

He called on the youths to support candidates who, according to him, had demonstrated commitment to their development and the overall progress of the constituency and the state.

The homecoming ceremony attracted political leaders, APC stakeholders, traditional rulers, youths, women, and other supporters from across the Yagba Federal Constituency.

Ododo Reconciles Kabba APC Stakeholders, Unites Party Ahead of 2027 Elections

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has brokered peace among APC stakeholders in the Kabba axis, urging party leaders and members to put aside their differences, embrace unity and work collectively towards the party’s success in the 2027 elections.

Speaking with stakeholders, Ododo reaffirmed his commitment to the development of Kabba and the wider Owe community, stressing that internal disagreements must not be allowed to weaken the party at the grassroots.

The Governor particularly emphasised the importance of the APC State House of Assembly candidates, declaring: “The APC candidates for the Assembly seats are my candidates and I prioritise them. All hands must be on deck to deliver them. The victory of the APC is not negotiable.”

He called on party leaders, stakeholders and supporters to give the candidates their full support, while stressing that electoral victory should translate into stronger government-community relations and more development for the people.

Ododo’s intervention is part of his broader reconciliation efforts within the Kogi APC. In September, he inaugurated a 17-member Peace and Conflict Resolution Committee, chaired by former Governor Idris Wada, to reconcile aggrieved members, resolve internal disputes and strengthen party unity ahead of 2027.

The Governor’s engagement with Kabba APC stakeholders is expected to further strengthen unity within the party and enhance its grassroots mobilisation ahead of the forthcoming elections.

Ododo Backs Kogi Unity Accord, Urges Stakeholders to Build Lasting Template for Peace and Equitable Development.

 

Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has thrown his weight behind the Kogi Unity Accord initiative, declaring that the time has come for the people of the state to unite, put aside political and sectional interests, and build a lasting template for peace, equity and sustainable development.

Governor Ododo stated this on Tuesday at the Government House, Lokoja, when he received the report of the Kogi Unity Accord Committee, chaired by Hon. Bode Adeyemi, following its extensive consultations and two-day summit on power and resource allocation in the state.

The Governor, who described the development as a moment for thanksgiving, recalled that he initially rejected calls to accept political responsibility in 2023 because of his deep concerns about the divisions he perceived in the state. According to him, his background and upbringing had taught him to bring people together as one family, but he did not initially see the same spirit reflected in Kogi.

The Governor said the Unity Accord represented an opportunity to make history, stressing that the responsibility of building peace and unity in Kogi belonged to everyone and not only politicians. He warned that if stakeholders failed to come together and resolve longstanding issues, the consequences would eventually affect the entire state.

Ododo urged the committee to broaden its consultations by making the documents available to former governors, political leaders, members of the National Assembly, the State House of Assembly, traditional rulers, retired public servants and other critical stakeholders for scrutiny and constructive contributions.

He particularly stressed the importance of documenting whatever consensus eventually emerges, insisting that he would not support a temporary arrangement that could solve a problem today only to create a bigger crisis for future generations.

“I will not be party to something that will solve a problem now and create a major problem for the future generation,” the Governor said, calling for continued consultation and a solution that would be properly documented and protected

The Governor also called for a new mindset towards the resources and development potential of the state, urging Kogi people to stop viewing assets according to their geographical locations or ethnic affiliations. He cited the state’s mineral resources, including coal, lithium and gold, as common assets that should be harnessed for the benefit of all Kogi people.

According to him, the Unity Accord is bigger than partisan politics, noting that the people who participated in the initiative cut across political parties and different sections of the state.

“This is not about politics. Whether APC, whether PDP, it is about Kogi,” Ododo declared, commending the committee for demonstrating that the younger generation could rise above inherited divisions and provide leadership on issues affecting the future of the state.

The Governor described the initiative as a signal that a new generation of Kogi people was prepared to take responsibility for building upon the foundations laid by past leaders. He acknowledged the contributions of past leaders who had worked to advance the state, stressing that what leaders do while in office ultimately becomes their legacy.

Earlier, Chairman of the Kogi Unity Accord Committee, Hon. Bode Adeyemi, said the initiative was born out of a desire to develop a path that would promote unity, equity and inclusive governance in a state that had experienced ethnic suspicion and political divisions in its leadership recruitment process.

Adeyemi explained that the committee did not begin the process abruptly, revealing that it had earlier conducted senatorial summits in Kogi West and Kogi East before proceeding to a wider Kogi-wide summit. He said the committee subsequently travelled across the 21 local government areas to engage traditional rulers, religious leaders, community development associations, professional bodies, civil society organisations and other stakeholders.

According to him, the consultations revealed that ordinary Kogi people were largely united, while political competition had often created divisions among them. He said the summit provided a platform for stakeholders to openly discuss how power and resources could be shared equitably without allowing political competition to tear the state apart.

Adeyemi disclosed that the two-day summit, held on September 30 and October 1, produced three major documents: the summit report, a communique and what he described as the October 1 Accord, the Charter of Equity and Inclusive Governance for Kogi State.

He said the documents represented the collective efforts and positions of stakeholders from across the state, adding that the committee had video evidence of the contributions made by participants during the summit.

He further said the committee would formally transmit the documents to the Kogi State House of Assembly, the State Council of Traditional Rulers and other relevant stakeholders for further consideration and eventual implementation.

He expressed appreciation to Governor Ododo for creating an enabling environment for such a gathering to take place, describing the Governor as a leader who believes in unity, development and progress.

He also disclosed that the committee’s next line of action would be to take the Accord to other critical stakeholders, stressing that the ultimate objective was to establish a system in which every part of Kogi State could enjoy equitable development irrespective of who occupied the governorship.

He described the initiative as a new dawn for Kogi, expressing optimism that the process would lead to greater unity and provide a workable framework for addressing recurring political tensions in the state.

Iyamoye Welcomes Ogidi-Omo Movement as Olumoko Inaugurates New Members, Unveils Empowerment Plan- By Ogidi Omo Movement Media Team.

The ancient town of Iyamoye came alive as the Ogidi-Omo Movement held a grand reception and inauguration ceremony for new members, further strengthening its grassroots presence across Ijumu and Okunland.

For over two decades, the Ogidi-Omo Movement, under the leadership of Hon. Funsho Ekundayo Olumoko, FNIMN, PhD, has continued to evolve from a vision into one of the most impactful socio-political movements in Kogi State, championing community development, empowerment, and grassroots engagement.

Addressing a large gathering of supporters, traditional leaders, political stakeholders, and community members, Hon. Olumoko expressed appreciation to the people of Iyamoye for their warm reception and unwavering support. He also acknowledged the Iyamoye Traditional Council and distinguished guests who graced the occasion.

Among the dignitaries present were the Chairman of Ijumu Local Government Area, Hon. Haruna Ibrahim (DSTV); the Member representing Ijumu Constituency in the Kogi State House of Assembly, Hon. Omotayo Adeleye Ishaya; former lawmaker Hon. Adekunle; the Provost of Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa, Dr. Femi Fashagba; former House of Representatives member and Senate aspirant, Hon. Teejay Yusuf; representatives of Hon. Salman Idris, and several other notable personalities.

A major highlight of the event was the inauguration of new members who formally pledged their loyalty and commitment to the ideals of the movement and to the continued advancement of the Renewed Hope agenda under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo.

Hon. Olumoko also called on the people of Iyamoye to support the Chairmanship ambition of Hon. Haruna Ibrahim in the forthcoming local government election scheduled for October 17.

In a significant announcement, the Ogidi-Omo leader revealed plans to organize a community empowerment programme in Iyamoye before the end of the year, assuring residents that the movement remains committed to improving lives and creating opportunities for the people.

Speaking at the event, Hon. Teejay Yusuf donated ₦1 million in support of the Ogidi-Omo Movement's empowerment initiative and membership drive, commending the movement's consistency and impact across communities.

Hon. Olumoko further urged residents to remain steadfast in their support for Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, expressing confidence that the Governor's administration would continue to deliver meaningful development and greater dividends of democracy to Kogi people.

The colourful event also featured rich cultural performances, celebration of local traditions, and presentation of gifts to Hon. Funsho Olumoko in recognition of his leadership, dedication, and enduring contributions to community development and grassroots mobilization.

The gathering ended on a high note, reinforcing the growing influence of the Ogidi-Omo Movement and its commitment to the progress, unity, and prosperity of Iyamoye, Ijumu, and Okunland as a whole.

Ogidi-Omo Movement Unveils Grassroots Impact Tour and Ododo Telemedicine Programme Lokoja, Kogi State — October 4, 2026.

  

The Ogidi-Omo Movement Initiative has commenced its Renewed Hope Grassroots Impact Tour, a community-focused programme aimed at promoting grassroots engagement, empowerment and improved access to healthcare across communities in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State.

The initiative also features the introduction of the Ododo Telemedicine Programme, an intervention designed to leverage technology to improve access to healthcare services and bring medical support closer to underserved communities.

The programme features a series of movement inaugurations, empowerment activities and medical outreaches across Iyamoye, Ijumu, Gbede, Ijumu Arin and Ogidi.

According to the programme schedule, activities began on October 4, 2026, at Iyamoye Town Hall, with the inauguration of the Ogidi-Omo Movement in Iyamoye.

 Further engagements are scheduled for October 5 at the Ijumu LGA Secretariat, Iyara; October 6 at Ayetoro Gbede Town Hall; October 8 at the residence of Hon. Funsho Olumoko in Ekinrin-Adde; and October 13 at the Ogidi Community Civic Centre.

Beyond the movement's inaugurations, the tour will feature community empowerment initiatives and medical outreaches, highlighting the organisers' commitment to practical interventions that directly benefit residents.

The organisers describe the programme as “an initiative to be part of something meaningful,” reflecting their stated vision of strengthening community participation, supporting grassroots development and expanding access to healthcare.

The Renewed Hope Grassroots Impact Tour and Ododo Telemedicine Programme therefore represent a coordinated effort to deepen community engagement while delivering empowerment and healthcare opportunities to residents across the participating communities.

I Commit to God Those Who Exploited Oyewole’s Death to Conspire Against Me,- Says Olumoko

A Chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kogi West and founder of the Ogidi Omo Movement Worldwide, a support group, Hon. Funsho Olumoko, has broken his silence following the death of the party’s Chairman in Ijumu Local Government Area, Hon. Solomon Oyewole.

Olumoko had been accused on some social media platforms of having a hand in Oyewole’s passing.

Speaking as Chairman of Egbeda Egga Day 2026, the APC chieftain, who is also the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the Federal University of Education, Pankshin, Plateau State, said his hands are clean.

He claimed that disgruntled elements exploited the incident to malign his image.

He described Oyewole as his political son and brother until his death. He said he believes in the judgement of God and has committed his accusers to the “Court of God.”

There was so much conspiracy about my person when I attempted to bring a level of peace in Ijumu Local Area. Some people took advantage of the unfortunate event of one of my very loyal sons, Hon. Solomon Oyewole. They said Olumoko killed him, I have no reason to kill somebody. He was a very good person to me and has been with me for long.

“May God grant us and his family the fortitude to bear this painful loss. And for those who took advantage of that incident, I commit them to the Court of God Almighty to deal decisively with them. My hands are clean and I have nothing to do with it. But for those who took advantage, who maliciously tried to to destroy Ijumu Local Government for whatever reason, I pray that God almighty will expose them and their shame will be made public by the grace of God.”

Olumoko thanked the leaders and members of the Movement for standing by him, and for their contributions and value addition.

He assured them that he would not disappoint them.

He also advised the leaders of the Egbeda Egga community to brainstorm and strategise on how to leverage the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo to attract democracy dividends to the community.

He noted that self-help has been the trademark of the Okun people, but said it cannot match the efforts of government.

The APC chieftain commended the organisers for putting together a befitting event.

‎Kogi stakeholders back 2032 power rotation, support Ododo’s second term Politics.

 

‎Stakeholders from Kogi State’s three senatorial districts have backed an eight-year rotational arrangement for political power, with the majority favouring its commencement in 2032 after the completion of Governor Usman Ododo’s second term.

‎The position was contained in the communiqué issued at the end of the maiden Kogi State Power Rotation Summit held on Wednesday and Thursday in Lokoja.

‎The two-day summit, convened by the Kogi Unity Accord under the theme, “Retooling Kogi for Unity, Equity and Shared Prosperity,” brought together traditional rulers, religious leaders, political stakeholders, community and socio-cultural organisations, professionals, organised labour, youths, students and civil society representatives.

‎According to the communiqué obtained by our correspondent on Friday, the majority of views expressed at the summit supported an eight-year rotational arrangement, with 2032 proposed as the commencement date.

‎The stakeholders said the proposed timeline would provide sufficient opportunity for legislation, wider consultation and the development of an appropriate legal framework, while allowing the incumbent governor to complete his constitutionally guaranteed second term.

‎The summit recognised power rotation as a possible mechanism for promoting fairness, unity, peaceful coexistence and a stronger sense of belonging among the people of the state.

‎“The Summit recognised that power rotation could serve as a mechanism for promoting fairness, unity, peaceful coexistence and a stronger sense of belonging among the people of Kogi State,” the communiqué stated.

‎It, however, stressed that rotation should not displace considerations of competence, integrity, capacity, accountability and leadership ability.

‎The summit recommended the development of a broad-based framework for political inclusion and equitable participation involving the three senatorial districts.

‎It further called for consultations across Kogi East, Kogi Central and Kogi West before a final position on the proposed arrangement is adopted.

‎Despite the majority position favouring commencement in 2032, some delegates and organisations advocated an earlier transfer of power to Kogi West after the expiration of the incumbent governor’s tenure.

‎The President of the Okun Development Association, Rotimi Akenson, argued that Kogi West had not produced a governor since the creation of the state and should therefore be considered in the next phase of political succession.

‎Similarly, the Christian Association of Nigeria, through its representative, supported an equitable rotational arrangement beginning after the expiration of Ododo’s tenure, with political power moving to Kogi West.

‎The CAN representative also expressed a preference for a Christian governor, linking the position to ethnic and religious considerations.

‎A major development at the summit was the position of the Kogi State House of Assembly, with its Speaker, Aliyu Yusuf, announcing that the legislature was prepared to enact legislation providing a framework for power rotation.

‎Yusuf said the issue would require careful deliberation and that the views of all stakeholders would be considered in the legislative process.

‎The proposed legislation, if introduced and enacted, would provide an institutional framework for an issue that has largely been driven by political convention, advocacy and stakeholder consultations.

‎The communiqué acknowledged that the 1999 Constitution, as amended, does not expressly prescribe rotation of governorship among senatorial districts.

‎It therefore recommended that any eventual arrangement must operate through lawful political, democratic and institutional processes.

‎Governor Ododo, represented at the summit by Commodore Jerry Omodara (retd.), urged stakeholders to pursue political dialogue without compromising the peace of the state.

‎He called on stakeholders to treat Kogi’s diversity as a source of strength and promote trust, peace and inclusive dialogue as the state approaches another electoral cycle.

‎The governor also urged youths to reject political violence and encouraged stakeholders to pursue peaceful engagement and constructive dialogue.

‎The summit chairman, Vice Admiral Joseph Ajayi (retd.), described the dialogue as important to Kogi’s political development and called for a structured framework capable of promoting inclusion and reducing political tensions and tribal rivalry.

‎A participant at the summit and former Deputy Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Sir Kehinde Ejibunu, also urged stakeholders to consider the political aspirations of minority groups in pursuing power-sharing arrangements.

‎“We want the state to be together; we don’t want it to be set ablaze,” he said.

‎The summit proposed the development of a Kogi Charter of Equity and Inclusion to guide political participation, peaceful engagement and representation across the state.

‎It also recommended the establishment of a follow-up mechanism, expansion of the Kogi Unity Accord, creation of zonal structures and further consultations across the three senatorial districts.

‎The stakeholders further resolved that minority tribes and communities should be protected from political marginalisation, while elective and political appointments should reflect equitable representation and the spirit of federal character.

‎The communiqué stressed that the resolutions should mark the beginning of a sustained process rather than the conclusion of the debate on power rotation in Kogi State.