By Muslimat Itopa
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has emphasized that the rule of law must take precedence in the ongoing process to restore suppressed state constituencies across the state.
The governor made this known during a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) office in Lokoja, convened to address the implementation of court rulings on constituency restoration.
Governor Ododo described the exercise as a defining moment for justice, equity, and democratic development, noting that the restoration of previously suppressed constituencies represents a victory for fair representation and institutional integrity.
According to him, the process underscores the importance of allowing legal frameworks and judicial pronouncements to guide democratic reforms rather than political convenience.
He commended INEC for adhering to the Federal High Court judgment and constitutional provisions in handling the matter, describing the commission as an institution anchored on legality and due process.
The governor also lauded the leadership of INEC for demonstrating courage and professionalism, despite potential pressures, adding that such commitment strengthens public confidence in the electoral system
He further acknowledged the role of the Federal Government in upholding judicial independence, noting that non-interference in the process reflects a growing respect for democratic principles.
Governor Ododo assured INEC officials and other stakeholders of the state government’s full cooperation, including the provision of adequate security to ensure a smooth and credible exercise. He reiterated that Kogi remains safe and ready to support all lawful activities aimed at deepening democracy.
He urged all parties involved to remain committed to fairness, transparency, and due process throughout the exercise, stressing that the outcome must reflect justice and equity for all affected communities.
In his remarks, the Supervising National Commissioner in charge of Kogi, Kwara, and Niger States, Professor Sani Mohammed Adams, described the task as complex but necessary.
He explained that the exercise is aimed at implementing court directives while maintaining constitutional balance, particularly regarding the limits on the number of constituencies per federal constituency.
Professor Adams called for maximum cooperation from stakeholders, noting that the process would involve field assessments and consultations to ensure that any adjustments made are fair, lawful, and in the overall interest of the state.
Similarly, the Kogi State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Shehu Abdulwahab, highlighted the importance of collaboration, noting that the exercise is taking place alongside other major electoral activities, including party primaries and voter registration.
He stressed that stakeholder support would be critical to achieving the desired outcome.
Legal representatives for the three senatorial district who spoke at the meeting raised concerns about potential imbalances in representation, warning against selective adjustments that could create new inequalities. They called for a comprehensive and inclusive approach that addresses all underrepresented areas across the state.
The legal representatives emphasized the need for adherence to constitutional provisions, including limits on constituency allocation, while advocating for a more equitable distribution that reflects population and ensures no area is marginalized.
In their goodwill messages, the Ohinoyi of Ebira Land, Alhaji Muhammad Tijani Anaje, praised the governor and INEC for the maturity and sense of responsibility displayed in handling the sensitive issue.
As at the time of filing this report, the technical session of the stakeholders’ engagement was still ongoing.
The meeting marks the beginning of a broader consultative process expected to shape the eventual implementation of constituency adjustments in Kogi State, as efforts continue to align representation with constitutional and judicial requirements.
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