Kogi’s Choice To Appoint First-Class Chiefs From Ekinrin Ade Deemed Misguided By KLIF

Kogi’s Choice To Appoint First-Class Chiefs From Ekinrin Ade Deemed Misguided By KLIF

The Kogi Leadership Initiative Forum (KLIF), a civil society organization, has condemned the recent appointment of two new first-class chiefs from Ekinrin Ade, labeling it as a misplaced priority…….. CONTINUE READING

Joseph Lawal, KLIF’s National Coordinator, expressed concern that these appointments, which increase the number of first-class chiefs in Ekinrin Ade to three in a community with fewer than 5,000 residents, seem more motivated by political favoritism than by addressing the community’s actual needs.

In a statement released on Saturday, Lawal remarked, “The situation in Kogi State is growing increasingly troubling as the government, under Governor Yahaya Bello and Usman Ododo, appears to be descending into chaos. In the past year alone, over 150 first-class chiefs have been appointed, raising serious concerns about the underlying motives of these decisions.”

He continued, “Many observers believe these appointments are driven more by political gains than by genuine community representation or leadership. Kogi State, rich in cultural heritage and resources, is currently struggling with a lack of direction. Governor Bello’s administration, under Ododo’s influence, is reported to be mismanaging and misappropriating state resources daily, leaving the government without a clear development strategy.”

Lawal highlighted that “Institutions intended to serve the public are being dismantled or manipulated for political patronage, undermining the essence of governance.” He pointed out that the recent appointment of two new first-class chiefs from Ekinrin Ade, which now has three such chiefs, has sparked controversy and questions about the rationale behind these decisions.

Critics argue that these appointments are more about rewarding political allies than meeting the community’s real needs. Lawal added, “The erosion of the value of traditional leadership, as these esteemed positions become tools for political maneuvering, breeds discontent among the populace who feel sidelined in a system that values loyalty over capability.”

He concluded by stressing the urgency for stakeholders, including civil society organizations, traditional leaders, and the public, to unite and demand a return to effective governance. Without significant reforms, Lawal warned, the state is at risk of descending further into lawlessness and anarchy.

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