OYDA dissociates self from purported endorsement of 2027 Kogi governorship candidate, reaffirms Okun aspiration
Calls for unity, security, reconciliation between ODA, KDU; urges James Faleke to provide leadership
By Samuel Temiloluwa
The Okun Youth Development Association (OYDA) has dissociated itself from any purported endorsement of a candidate for the 2027 Kogi State governorship election, insisting that no individual or group can speak on behalf of Okun youths without an established mandate and collective consensus.
The association also reaffirmed its commitment to the longstanding aspiration of Okunland to produce the next Governor of Kogi State in 2027, describing power rotation as a legitimate instrument for political inclusion, equitable representation and sustainable development.
- Advertisement -
These positions were contained in a 10-point communiqué issued at the conclusion of the Fifth Okun Community Political and Security Summit and Award Presentation held at Olonijola Hall, Kabba, on Saturday, October 24, 2026.
The summit, organised under the leadership of the Caretaker Committee Chairman of OYDA, Dr. Segun Babayomi Amupitan, attracted prominent stakeholders and eminent sons of Okunland, including the National President of the Okun Development Association (ODA), Ambassador Akenson Rotimi; Admiral Joseph Ajayi (Rtd.); Hon. Funsho Olorunfemi; Barrister Ologbonyo; Ambassador Ademola Moribirin; Chief Ajibade; Hon. Kunle Jagun and Mr. Baiyere, among others.
On the controversy surrounding political endorsement ahead of the 2027 governorship election, the association stated that it had not formally authorised any endorsement through an inclusive and duly constituted decision-making process, adding that such an endorsement also lacked the approval of the Okun Development Association (ODA).
It stressed that individual political affiliations and preferences should not be presented as the collective position of Okun youths, particularly without consultation with relevant grassroots youth organisations.
The communiqué further called on Okun political leaders, traditional rulers, community stakeholders, youths and other interest groups to demonstrate unity of purpose and pursue the region’s governorship aspiration through strategic political engagement, constructive negotiations, grassroots mobilisation and active electoral participation.
On the presidency of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, OYDA acknowledged its support for the continuation of his administration, citing federal appointments involving Okun indigenes and his position on the aspiration for the creation of Okun State, among other considerations.
The association, however, emphasised the need for sustained engagement with the Federal Government to secure greater political inclusion, equitable representation and developmental opportunities for Okunland.
Expressing concern over the security situation across the region, the summit identified kidnapping, banditry, farmer-herder conflicts and other criminal activities as major threats to the safety and economic stability of communities.
It noted that insecurity had continued to undermine livelihoods, displace residents, disrupt agricultural activities and threaten economic development.
Consequently, it called for strengthened security presence, improved intelligence gathering, closer collaboration between security agencies and traditional institutions, as well as urgent measures to tackle kidnapping, banditry and other criminal activities.
On economic development, OYDA identified agriculture, commerce, entrepreneurship and youth employment as critical pillars of sustainable growth in Okunland.
It advocated increased investment in agricultural production, improved access to business financing, expanded employment opportunities for young people and deliberate support for small and medium-scale enterprises.
The association also called for urgent rehabilitation of deteriorating roads across the region to improve transportation, facilitate commercial activities and strengthen inter-community connectivity.
In another significant resolution, the summit appealed to respected community leaders and stakeholders to facilitate reconciliation between the Okun Development Association (ODA) and the Kabba Development Union (KDU).
It maintained that institutional harmony, mutual understanding and constructive engagement among organisations representing the interests of Okunland were indispensable to the region’s collective advancement.
On education and youth development, the association underscored the importance of education, responsible leadership and civic consciousness in preparing young people for meaningful contributions to society.
It also advocated the sustenance of its annual Community Political and Security Summit, which it said had been convened since 2021 as a platform for political engagement, security discourse and recognition of distinguished Okun sons and daughters through generational honours.
Addressing electoral participation, OYDA expressed concern over the disparity between the number of registered voters and valid votes cast in previous governorship elections across the five local government areas associated with Okunland.
It therefore called for intensified voter education, grassroots mobilisation and increased participation in voter registration and subsequent electoral processes.
The association observed that the political relevance and bargaining strength of any community were significantly influenced by its level of electoral participation, urging eligible Okun voters, particularly youths, to take ownership of the democratic process through lawful and active participation.
Specifically, the summit appealed to Hon. James Abiodun Faleke to return home and provide the necessary leadership and direction towards advancing the governorship aspiration of Kogi West Senatorial District.
It noted that constructive engagement and strategic leadership were essential to building the consensus required to actualise the region’s political ambition.
The association also charged Okun youths across political, professional, social and community affiliations to rise above personal interests and embrace collective responsibility in shaping the future of the region.
It urged them to participate actively in political processes, community security initiatives, economic development and the preservation of Okunland’s cultural and institutional heritage.
In its concluding remarks, OYDA maintained that the future of Okunland must be anchored on political inclusion, collective consensus, institutional unity, community security, economic advancement and responsible youth participation.
It described the 2027 governorship election as a significant opportunity for Okunland to advance its longstanding quest for equitable political representation in Kogi State.
The association consequently urged all stakeholders, irrespective of political affiliations, to prioritise the collective interest of Okunland and work towards a united, strategic and sustained pursuit of the region’s political and developmental objectives.
The communiqué, signed by Dr. Segun Babayomi Amupitan through the Office of the Chairman, Caretaker Committee, reiterated that the political future of Okunland must be determined through consultation, unity, strategic engagement and the active participation of its people rather than individual interests.
Dr. Segun Babayomi Amupitan ,
08164295171,09155009101
DemocracyNewslineNewspaper November 4th, 2026
