By Dada Ahmed in Lokoja.
Alhaji Mohammed Onipe Aliyu.
KSC-PAGG Chairman.
As political preparations intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Kogi State Coalition of Political Associations for Good Governance (KSC-PAGG) has called on political actors in the state to embrace responsibility, vision, and democratic maturity in the pursuit of public leadership.
The coalition, made up of stakeholders from deregistered but still vocal political associations, made this known in a release jointly signed by its Chairman, Alhaji Mohammed Onipe Aliyu, and Secretary, Elder Ephraim Medupin and made available a copy to The Reporters in Lokoja on Sunday.
The coalition emphasized the need for a governance style that prioritizes the wellbeing of citizens and upholds democratic values in the face of unfolding political developments.
KSC-PAGG’s intervention comes amid increasing political activity involving the ruling party, a newly formed opposition coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), and other parties gearing up for the next election.
According to the coalition, all parties,ruling or opposition,must put the people first and engage in politics of substance rather than rhetoric.
While commending the current administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for sustaining democratic institutions, the coalition highlighted pressing areas needing urgent attention.
These include more attention to curb insecurity, inadequate water supply, job creation, education, and increased transparency in governance.
The coalition urged the state government to adopt a more listening posture and act on citizens’ feedback through “sincere dialogue and result-driven policies.”
The coalition, which also consists of members from formerly deregistered political parties who continue to operate as civic stakeholders across the 21 local government areas of the state,expressed commitment to supporting credible governance, adding that it is open to partnerships that will improve life for the people of Kogi State.
In its statement, KSC-PAGG issued a four-point call to action: The ruling party should reevaluate its policies and performance in light of the people’s expectations.
The emerging ADC-led coalition and other opposition parties must unite around people-focused agendas, not just political ambition.
Citizens are encouraged to stay politically aware, peaceful, and engaged in shaping the state’s future.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should revisit the legality of deregistering political parties and ensure fairness in the electoral process.
According to the coalition, “Now is the time for leadership that listens, serves and delivers.” With less than two years to the next election, the group believes the political window is ripe for meaningful transformation,and called on leaders at all levels to prioritize integrity, unity, and development over personal interest.
KSC-PAGG reaffirmed its commitment to supporting good governance initiatives and pledged to make its grassroots structures available to like-minded actors and platforms.
The group insists that democracy will only thrive when constructive criticism, responsive governance, and competitive ideas are embraced by all stakeholders.
It called on Kogi citizens and political leaders alike to rise to the challenge of nation-building through inclusive and visionary leadership, pointing out the state has prepared for what could be a defining political transition in 2027.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
