By Emmanuel Odekina Iyede
As political activities ahead of the next National Assembly election gather momentum, a growing number of supporters across Igala Kingdom are urging political stakeholders to rally behind Idris HK as the consensus candidate for the Kogi East Senatorial District.
The supporters argue that the district stands at a defining moment and requires what they describe as a leader with a proven commitment to grassroots development, community empowerment and effective representation. They believe presenting a consensus candidate would strengthen the district’s political influence and improve its chances of securing greater development.
Concerns Over Representation
Those backing Idris HK point to what they consider an imbalance in political appointments and development across Kogi State. They note that despite Igala Kingdom comprising nine local government areas, the area currently has only three commissioners out of the state’s 24 ministries. They contrast this with Kogi Central, which has five local government areas but, according to them, holds 13 commissioner positions.
Supporters argue that the disparity reflects a broader pattern of political marginalisation that has left many communities in Igala Kingdom struggling with poor road networks, inadequate healthcare facilities, limited electricity supply and widespread poverty.
According to them, these longstanding challenges require representatives who can effectively engage government institutions and attract meaningful development projects to the district.
Why Supporters Are Backing Idris HK
Supporters cite several reasons for their confidence in Idris HK’s leadership.
Track Record of Community Development
They say Idris HK has consistently demonstrated a personal commitment to the development of Igala Kingdom through projects funded with his own resources. According to his supporters, these interventions have positively impacted several communities and earned him widespread goodwill.
Ability to Attract Government Projects
Another point frequently raised by supporters is what they describe as Idris HK’s ability to engage relevant government agencies and advocate for projects that benefit the people of Kogi East.
They argue that effective representation goes beyond attending legislative sittings and includes building relationships capable of bringing infrastructure and social amenities to underserved communities.
Consistency in Development Efforts
Supporters also point to the ongoing Ankpa electrification project as an example of what they describe as Idris HK’s sustained commitment to improving lives across Igala Kingdom.
They contend that his involvement in development initiatives demonstrates consistency rather than short-term political engagement.
Youth Empowerment Through Employment
Beyond infrastructure, supporters credit Idris HK with creating employment opportunities for hundreds of Igala youths through his various business ventures.
They argue that reducing unemployment remains one of the most effective ways to tackle poverty and improve economic opportunities within the district.
Call for Unity
Supporters believe the forthcoming senatorial contest presents an opportunity for political leaders, traditional stakeholders and community groups across the nine local government areas of Igala Kingdom to unite behind a single candidate and why we must reject candidates who are puppets to the oppressors of Igala Kingdom.
They argue that avoiding internal divisions would strengthen the district’s collective voice and improve its negotiating position within the state’s political landscape.
According to them, a united front behind Idris HK would allow Igala Kingdom to focus on addressing issues such as infrastructure, healthcare, electricity, education and youth employment, which they describe as priorities for the district’s future.
Looking Ahead
As consultations continue among political stakeholders, supporters insist that the conversation should focus on leadership capacity, performance and commitment to public service. They maintain that the choice of a consensus candidate should ultimately reflect the collective aspirations of the people of Igala Kingdom and their desire for improved representation and sustainable development.
Editor’s Note: The views expressed in this article are those attributed to supporters of Idris HK. They represent the supporters’ perspective and should not be interpreted as independently verified findings or the editorial position of The Bureau Journal.
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