The Movement for the Emancipation of Kogi State (MEKSTA) has raised concerns over what it described as attempts by political interests in Kogi State to involve traditional rulers in Okunland in emerging political battles ahead of the 2027 elections.
In a statement titled “Dignify Your Stools, Refuse to Be Used as Agents of Division,” the group urged monarchs across the six Okun-speaking local government areas of Kogi West to maintain neutrality and safeguard the sanctity of their traditional institutions.
MEKSTA called on the royal fathers to emulate the example of the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, Ahmed Tijani Anaje, who recently declined to endorse any political aspirant, maintaining that traditional rulers should remain fathers to all regardless of political affiliation.
The group alleged that a recent meeting of Okun traditional rulers convened in Lokoja by Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo was part of efforts to influence political developments in Kogi West, particularly those relating to Senator Sunday Steve Karimi.
According to MEKSTA, information available to the organisation suggests that some monarchs may be pressured to lend credibility to allegations against the senator in what it described as a coordinated attempt to weaken his political influence ahead of the next electoral cycle.
The group further claimed that the alleged moves are aimed at disrupting what it called a growing political consensus around Karimi, whom it described as the preferred choice of grassroots members of the ruling party across Kogi West.
MEKSTA recalled that Samuel Bamidele Aro, previously seen as a potential challenger to Karimi, withdrew from the APC senatorial contest before the party primary and subsequently endorsed the senator, questioning why controversies surrounding the race have persisted.
Beyond politics, the organisation expressed concern over the security situation in Kogi West, arguing that public officials should focus on addressing rising cases of kidnapping, banditry and other violent crimes rather than becoming entangled in political disputes.
“At a time when families are living in fear and communities are battling insecurity, leaders should be promoting unity and hope, not deepening divisions among the people,” the statement said.
MEKSTA maintained that Karimi’s popularity is rooted in his accessibility, legislative performance and engagement with constituents, adding that his victory in the APC primary reflected the confidence party members have in his leadership.
The group warned that efforts to undermine the senator’s mandate could trigger unnecessary tensions within the APC and potentially weaken the party’s electoral prospects in Kogi West.
It therefore called on traditional rulers to resist political pressure, preserve the neutrality of their stools and continue serving as symbols of unity, stability and peace in their communities.
The statement was jointly signed by members of MEKSTA drawn from the various federal constituencies across Kogi State.