By Bin Baqqi.
As Kogi State continues its steady march towards development, one message resonates across the political landscape: unity is indispensable. For the state to achieve lasting peace, stability, and prosperity, leaders,especially within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC),must rise above personal and factional differences and work together to support the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo.
The recent meeting between former Governor Yahaya Bello, CON, Senator Sunday Steve Karimi, and APC stalwart, Alhaji Suleiman Baba Ali, at the former governor’s Abuja residence, sent a powerful message of reconciliation and collaboration. It was not merely a courtesy call; it symbolized a renewed commitment to strengthening the bonds within the ruling party and consolidating on the progress achieved in recent years.
Speaking after the meeting, Alhaji Yahaya Bello emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in governance. “Kogi State is our shared home. We must all come together to build it, irrespective of our political differences. Governor Ododo deserves our total support to continue the good work we started,” he said.
His words capture the essence of what Kogi needs most at this critical juncture,a united political front driven by patriotism, loyalty, and a common vision for the state’s future. Since assuming office, Governor Ododo has shown determination to deepen reforms, strengthen institutions, and sustain the legacy of inclusive governance established by his predecessor.
“Our administration is focused on building continuity with innovation We are consolidating on the solid foundation laid before us, while introducing policies that promote inclusiveness, accountability, and rapid development,”Governor Ododo recently remarked at a stakeholders’ meeting in Lokoja.
However, the success of any administration depends not only on its policies but also on the political harmony that surrounds it. When political actors are united, governance becomes smoother, and citizens reap the dividends of Conversely ,when division sets in, development suffers.
Senator Sunday Karimi echoed this sentiment, stressing that party unity is a strategic necessity for progress. “We can only attract more federal support, investment, and confidence when we speak with one voice. Governor Ododo needs every hand on deck to deliver the Renewed Hope Agenda in Kogi,” he noted.
The Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, provides the framework for inclusive growth, infrastructure renewal, and economic empowerment. For Kogi State, aligning with this national vision requires synergy, cooperation, and shared purpose among political leaders at all levels.
Political analysts believe that Kogi’s strength lies in its diversity,both ethnically and politically. Yet, this diversity must be managed with wisdom. “The APC in Kogi has the advantage of being deeply rooted in all senatorial districts.Our focus now should be on sustaining that unity to ensure continued progress and peace,”said Alhaji Suleiman Baba Ali.
Historically, disunity among the political class has slowed Kogi’s pace of development. Rivalries, factional disputes, and competing interests have, at times, seem to have overshadowed governance. But the new wave of reconciliation within the APC signals a more mature and responsible political culture.
Governor Ododo’s inclusive approach,engaging stakeholders from across the three senatorial districts,reflects his understanding that governance is a collective project. His administration’s focus on youth empowerment, rural infrastructure, and public sector reforms is already earning commendation from diverse quarters.
Yet, sustaining these efforts requires political stability. A united APC, backed by the goodwill of its members, will not only strengthen governance but also attract more partnerships for development. The people of Kogi are watching, hopeful that their leaders will prioritize service over self-interest.
Beyond the APC, unity across the broader political spectrum is equally essential. Development does not wear a party colour. As one political observer in Lokoja noted, “Whether APC, PDP, or SDP, what matters now is Kogi’s progress. The state belongs to all of us, and history will judge leaders by their contribution to its growth.”
The task ahead demands humility, dialogue, and forgiveness among political actors. The recent gestures of collaboration among top APC figures should, therefore, be seen as a new beginning,one that must be nurtured through continued engagement and mutual respect.
Kogi’s political evolution has entered a defining phase. The Ododo administration represents continuity with renewed vigor, but it needs a united front to succeed. As Alhaji Yahaya Bello rightly said, “When leaders unite, the people prosper.” It is time for Kogi’s political class,especially within the APC,to embrace unity, stand as one, and work collectively toward building a peaceful, progressive, and prosperous Kogi State.
Bin Baqqi is a concerned APC stake holder in Kogi state.
