GALA AND OKUN: CULTURAL AFFINITY, BUT NO POLITICAL PACT FOR 2027

Though the Igala and Okun peoples share deep cultural affinities and historical connections, cultural brotherhood same as Ebiras, but must not be mistaken for a political pact ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Kogi State.

Let it be stated clearly: There is no political agreement, arrangement, or pact between the Igala and Okun blocs or any tribe committing either side to surrender or exchange the governorship ambition in 2027.

The Political Reality 

2027 is a defining moment for the Igala people.  

After years of political marginalization and the repeated postponement of our legitimate aspiration to produce the next Governor of Kogi State, the Igala people are determined to pursue the governorship with renewed unity, organization, and resolve.

The message is simple: IGALA GOVERNORSHIP IN 2027 IS NON-NEGOTIABLE.

This is not a declaration of war against the Okun people. It is not a rejection of our shared cultural heritage.  

It is an assertion of political interest, equity, justice, and the legitimate right of the Igala people to seek the highest elective office in Kogi State.

We can remain brothers culturally, neighbors geographically, and partners in development, while maintaining distinct political interests.  

Culture can unite us. Politics must give each people the space to pursue legitimate aspirations.

Therefore, nobody should misrepresent the cultural affinity between Igala and Okun as a political arrangement designed to deny the Igala people their 2027 governorship ambition.

The Democratic Truth  

Every Kogite has the constitutional right to aspire to and contest the governorship of the state, regardless of ethnic background. Everyone is free to express their political ambition.  

The claim that 2027 is "automatically reserved" for any particular group is neither politically established nor democratic.

Just as the Ebira may seek to extend their hold on power, and the Okun may aspire to take over the governorship, no ethnic group — including minority groups — is barred from contesting.  

However, the reality of democratic politics is clear: electoral victory is determined by numbers, organization, persuasion, and the ability to win the majority of votes.

The majority will have their way, while the minority must have their say.

2027: A Call to Action  

2027 is the year of the Igala governorship agenda. The Igala people must prepare, unite, and strategically organize ourselves to pursue this objective, irrespective of political party affiliation.

The recent victory of the relatively unknown Accord Party in Osun State proves one thing: when the people are determined, they can propel any platform to victory.  

If Osun could do it, who says Igala cannot do the same?

Our political destiny cannot and must not be tied to the apron strings of any political party.

For the past 10 years, what visible landmark project can any political party point to as its contribution to the development of Igala land?  

I challenge all political parties to point to one significant, completed, and verifiable project delivered to Igala land through their political commitment. Let anyone prove me wrong.

Yes, individuals and groups are free to support any zone or candidate of their choice. But the idea that the entire Igala Kingdom will be remote-controlled to favor a candidate simply because he is paying bills and feeding a few families is a *big fallacy*.  

You are free to promote and massage the ego of your political benefactor, regardless of his tribe or zone. You can pledge your family loyalty.  

But remember: Kogi State is not for sale.

The Road Ahead  

Going forward, we must apply the lessons learned and understand the complexities and technicalities of a governorship election.  

The strategy to excel in 2027 has already been evolved. And we are keeping our joker close to our chest.

The Igala people cannot continue to serve merely as political auxiliaries — providing votes to help political parties win elections, only to gain little or nothing in return.

We must move beyond being a dependable voting bloc without corresponding political dividends.  

Our votes must translate into representation, development, opportunities, and political relevance.

We are also hearing reports of proposed ward creation/alteration in Kogi State, allegedly excluding areas in Kogi East. For now, this remains speculation, or at best, an unsubstantiated claim. Such a sensitive issue must be treated with caution until there is an official and verifiable position from the appropriate authorities.

The Igala people must remain vigilant, politically conscious, and strategically organized.

2027 must not be another season of political promises. It must be a year of political assertion.

IGALA GOVERNORSHIP IN 2027 IS NON-NEGOTIABLE.

Chief Akwu Umar Goodman  

National Coordinator:

Ane-Igala Socio-Cultural Development Association (AISCDA)