By Hon. Daniel Oneal Ejigbo
As political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, conversations about the future of Kogi State are becoming increasingly unavoidable. Beyond political alliances, campaign slogans and party calculations lies a more fundamental question that deserves honest reflection: has every part of the state received equitable attention in terms of development, governance and public investment?
For many voices across Igala land, the answer is a resounding no.
Supporters of this view argue that despite constituting what they describe as more than half of Kogi State’s population, the Igala nation continues to grapple with widespread underdevelopment, deteriorating infrastructure and economic hardship.
They contend that successive administrations have failed to translate the area’s enormous human and natural resources into meaningful improvements in the lives of the people.
Across numerous communities, residents continue to lament the absence of reliable electricity, deplorable road networks, inadequate healthcare facilities, poor access to potable water and a lack of basic social amenities.
These challenges, they argue, have persisted despite increasing federal allocations to the state over the years.
To many observers, the issue is not merely political, it is a question of justice, fairness and inclusive governance.
Development experts have long maintained that balanced development is critical to social harmony and sustainable economic growth. When any major section of a state feels left behind, the consequences extend beyond infrastructure deficits to include rising poverty, youth unemployment, insecurity and declining public confidence in government.
For advocates of greater attention to Igala land, the conversation is not about ethnic superiority or division. Rather, they insist it is about ensuring that every community enjoys its fair share of development and opportunities. They argue that no people should continue to live without dependable electricity, accessible healthcare, functional schools, quality roads and other basic necessities in the twenty-first century.
The approach to the 2027 governorship election therefore presents what many believe is a defining opportunity for reflection. It is a time, they say, for voters to critically examine the records of those seeking public office rather than being swayed by empty promises, propaganda or short-term political inducements.
Many community leaders have also cautioned against narratives capable of distracting the people from their long-term interests. According to them, political actors have often exploited sentiments and divisions to secure electoral victories while leaving the fundamental developmental challenges unresolved.
They warn that embracing such narratives again could amount to moving “from the frying pan into the fire.”
Increasingly, there are calls for greater unity among Igala sons and daughters regardless of political affiliation, religious persuasion or social status.
The argument is that meaningful progress can only be achieved when the people collectively pursue a common developmental agenda instead of allowing political jobbers and vested interests to determine their future.
The call is also for greater civic engagement. Citizens are being encouraged to ask difficult questions: What has been delivered? Which communities have benefited from public projects? How have available resources been utilised? What concrete plans exist for infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture, industrialisation and employment?
Ultimately, elections should not merely be contests for political power. They should represent opportunities to redefine governance and improve the quality of life of ordinary citizens.
As Kogi State moves steadily towards another electoral cycle, many believe the time has come for Igala land to pursue a coordinated vision for its development, one driven by competent leadership, accountability, unity and a shared commitment to progress.
Whether one agrees with every aspect of this argument or not, one point remains difficult to ignore: sustainable peace and prosperity can only flourish where development is inclusive and every community feels seen, heard and fairly treated.
For many advocates, the moment to chart a new course is now. They believe the emancipation of Igala land from years of perceived neglect and backwardness requires collective resolve, informed political participation and leadership that places the welfare of the people above personal ambition.
As 2027 draws nearer, the message from these voices is clear: let wisdom guide political choices, let unity replace division, and let the pursuit of development become the overriding objective. Only then can Igala land occupy the place of pride they believe it rightly deserves within Kogi State and Nigeria.
Hon. Daniel Oneal Ejigbo, two term Commissioner for Rural Development Kogi State, writes from Abuja.
