Yagba Deserves to Complete Its Turn in 2027
By THEANALYSTMEDIA
As political activities gradually gather pace ahead of the 2027 general elections, a critical question of fairness and equity confronts the people of Kogi West Senatorial District: Should Yagba be allowed to complete its tenure in the Senate?
For those familiar with the political history of Kogi West, the answer seems clear. The district, which comprises three main federal constituencies — Yagba, Kabba/Bunu, and Ijumu — has over the years adopted a spirit of rotation and fairness in sharing key political offices, especially the Senate seat.
Yet, in recent months, there have been growing voices, particularly from Kabba/Bunu and Ijumu, expressing interest in taking over the senatorial position come 2027. While such ambitions are legitimate in a democracy, they must be guided by fairness, history, and respect for the principles that have kept the district politically stable.
A History That Must Not Be Ignored
From 2007 to 2023, Kogi West was represented in the Senate by two distinguished sons of Ijumu — Senator Smart Adeyemi, who served three terms, and Senator Dino Melaye, who served one. That’s a total of sixteen years of continuous representation by the Ijumu axis.
When the people of Kogi West voted overwhelmingly for Senator Sunday Karimi, a Yagba son, in 2023, it was not just a political change but a correction of imbalance. It was an acknowledgment that Yagba, one of the three integral components of the district, also deserved its fair turn at the highest level of legislative representation.
Equity and Continuity Go Hand in Hand
Senator Karimi has, within a short time, demonstrated commitment to the development of Kogi West through legislative engagement, constituency outreach, and empowerment initiatives. His approach to leadership has been calm, inclusive, and focused on tangible results rather than political showmanship.
To deny Yagba the opportunity of a second term would not only disrupt this progress but also send a message that equity in Kogi West is selective — that one part of the district can dominate while another is denied continuity.
Zoning Is About Justice, Not Sentiment
The principle of zoning has never been about entitlement; it is about justice and balance. In a plural district like Kogi West, political rotation helps maintain peace and a sense of belonging among all groups. If Ijumu could hold the seat for sixteen years without contention, then it is only fair that Yagba, through Senator Karimi, be allowed to complete its two terms before the baton naturally moves to another zone.
A Call for Political Maturity
The 2027 elections should not be reduced to a contest of personal ambitions. Rather, it should be an opportunity to strengthen unity in Kogi West by respecting established norms. The people deserve representation that reflects fairness and inclusiveness, not sectional dominance.
Allowing Senator Sunday Karimi to return for a second term is not just a Yagba demand; it is a collective affirmation of justice for all of Kogi West.
Politics built on equity endures; politics built on greed divides. The choice before Kogi West in 2027 should, therefore, be clear — let Yagba complete its turn.
