A former Kogi State House of Assembly member, Hon. Abidemi Adebola, has strongly opposed the re-election bid of Governor Usman Ododo, describing it as “dead on arrival.”
Adebola made this declaration on his Facebook page on Sunday, reacting to a viral video where former Governor Yahaya Bello openly endorsed Ododo for a second term.
“Kogi Won’t Become a Banana State” – Adebola
The ex-lawmaker, who represented Yagba West, criticized what he perceives as a political maneuver to extend the dominance of the ruling party in the state.
“The second-term agenda is dead on arrival. You people will not turn Kogi into a banana state,” he wrote.
Mixed Reactions from Kogi Residents
Adebola’s statement has sparked reactions online, with many Kogi indigenes weighing in on the matter.
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Lawrence Daodu expressed concern about early political tension, saying:
“May God help us oooo. The election hasn’t even come, and all these posts have already been shared.” -
Ibrahim John Onechojon emphasized the significance of the opposition coming from the Okun people, a major ethnic group in Kogi West.
“Thank God it’s coming from the Okun side.” -
Tinaji Onoruoiza Abdulaziz dismissed Adebola’s criticism as personal resentment, stating:
“Because this one didn’t return to the state assembly, that’s what’s still paining you. Nothing else. Relax, our second term is non-negotiable.” -
Sunny King Adeyemi called for unity, arguing against any single political group claiming dominance.
“Kogi State is not the exclusive domain of any particular family, tribe, or region. It is time to eliminate the detrimental elements within the system that are hindering the state’s progress.”
Ododo’s 2027 Ambition Faces Early Resistance
Governor Usman Ododo, who assumed office in January 2024, has yet to formally declare a second-term bid. However, Yahaya Bello’s endorsement suggests that political groundwork for the 2027 election is already being laid.
With opposition voices like Adebola already dismissing the possibility, the race for Kogi’s governorship in 2027 is shaping up to be a highly contested one.
