CLARIFICATION ON THE ISSUE OF ZONING IN OKENE I CONSTITUENCY
The group hereby extends sincere congratulations to the former Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Alhaji Yahaya Bello, CON, on the successful acquisition of his nomination form for the Kogi Central Senatorial District.
We sincerely wish him success in his future political endeavours. We also find it necessary, in the interest of justice, fairness, equity, and transparency, to clarify issues surrounding the zoning arrangement within Okene I Constituency.
It is important to note that the current House of Assembly seat for Okene I Constituency is occupied by Hon. Suleiman Abdulrazaq Sariki.
Within the broader context of political representation in Kogi Central, attention has recently been drawn to the rotational and zoning considerations among the Agada/Okovi groups, particularly as it relates to the next phase of representation.
Historically, the zoning arrangement within Okene Constituency has been structured between Okene I and Okene II constituencies in Okene Local Government Area.
Okene I comprises seven wards: Bariki Ward, Orietesu Ward, Idoji Ward, Onyukoko Ward, Otutu Ward, Lafia/Obessa Ward, and Okeneba/Agada/Ahache Ward.
Okene II comprises four wards: Abuga/Ozuja Ward, Upogoro/Odenku Ward, Obehira Eba Ward, and Obehira Ovete Ward.
Over time, representation in the Kogi State House of Assembly has reflected different understandings and arrangements within the political structure of the area.
It is also observed that the Okovi group has held representation on two occasions during previous administrations under former Governor Yahaya Bello.
In the spirit of fairness and equity, it is now being advocated that consideration be given to the Ogu clan from the Agada group across communities within Okene I Constituency.
These past arrangements were achieved while maintaining unity, peace, and cooperation among all stakeholders.
We strongly emphasize that zoning should not be driven by dominance or numerical strength, but rather by fairness, mutual respect, patience, and a shared commitment to the collective progress and development of our communities.
We therefore respectfully call on our traditional rulers, political stakeholders, and party leadership to approach this matter with wisdom, fairness, and a deep sense of justice, in order to ensure equity prevails.
This will help strengthen unity and prevent unnecessary divisions among our people.
Signed:
Okene Concern Citizens