By Ajuluchukwu Brown, Abuja
The Movement for the Emancipation of Kogi State (MEKSTA) has urged traditional rulers across Okunland to remain neutral and resist attempts by political actors to draw them into partisan activities ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the group expressed concern over what it described as efforts by certain political interests to use traditional institutions in Kogi West to create divisions and weaken support for Senator Sunday Karimi, who represents the district in the Senate.
MEKSTA stressed that traditional rulers occupy positions of trust and should serve as unifying figures within their communities rather than becoming involved in political rivalries.
According to the group, monarchs in Okunland should emulate the example of the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, Alhaji Ahmed Tijani Anaje, whom it commended for maintaining neutrality and staying above partisan politics.
“The traditional stool demands that royals are fathers to all and not partial to some. Traditional rulers must uphold the dignity of their offices and refuse to be used as instruments of division and destabilisation in their communities,” the statement said.
The group further alleged that plans were underway to mobilise traditional rulers from the six Okun-speaking local government areas in a political campaign aimed at discrediting Senator Karimi. It claimed that discussions surrounding a controversial video involving some chiefs from Egbe in Yagba West Local Government Area were being used to fuel political tensions.
MEKSTA described such actions as misplaced priorities, arguing that the people of Kogi West are currently facing more urgent challenges, particularly worsening insecurity across the region.
The organisation noted that communities in the district continue to grapple with kidnappings, bandit attacks and other security threats, adding that leaders should focus on promoting peace, unity and effective responses to these concerns.
“At a time when communities are battling insecurity, what the people need is reassurance, collaboration and responsible leadership, not politically motivated discord,” the group stated.
Reaffirming its support for Senator Karimi, MEKSTA described the lawmaker as accessible, pragmatic and connected to the grassroots. The group argued that his growing popularity and political acceptance within the district reflect public confidence in his representation.
It maintained that Senator Karimi remains the preferred choice of many members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kogi West ahead of the 2027 elections and warned against actions capable of creating divisions within the party.
The statement was jointly signed by representatives from various federal constituencies across Kogi State, including Hon. Obafemi Medaiyese, Comrade Joseph Mebatonije, Alhaji Yusuf Kpareke, Mallam Jimoh Ozovehe, Dr. Nurudeen Adaviriku, Alhaji Isiaka Momoh, Chief Ojonimi Adegbe, Pastor Mark Onucheyo and Bishop Husseini Saidu.
