At the Okun Unity and Peace Advocacy Symposium held yesterday, December 30, 2025, in Kabba, Kogi West Senatorial District, Chief Richard Asaje called on the people of Okun Nation to strengthen their unity and build effective synergy with Kogi Central to actualise the long-held aspiration of producing a governor from Okun land.
Chief Asaje stressed that only a formidable and united Okun bloc, working strategically with allies, especially Kogi Central, could achieve the goal of an Okun man becoming governor “sooner rather than later.”
In his remarks, he recalled that Okun land has historically enjoyed cordial political relations with Kogi Central. He noted that he serves on several committees of Central elders, adding that influential figures within Kogi Central had openly acknowledged that without the support of Kogi West/Okun people, former Governor Yahaya Bello would not have emerged governor.
He further explained that during the 2015 general elections, less than 100 votes from Okun land, were credited to Judge Olomoti and all other candidates by 1,260 delegates from Kogi West went to Kogi Central, a development that significantly strengthened Yahaya Bello’s position as a runner-up and eventually facilitated his emergence.
Chief Asaje also recounted events leading up to the 2011 elections, recalling a meeting held at the residence of a respected Okun leader, Olushola Akomode, in Aiyetoro, where Akomode expressed interest in contesting for the governorship. According to him, despite a collective agreement at the meeting to support Akomode, several participants later went ahead to purchase nomination forms, an action he described as a clear sign of disunity.
“We must be more formidable and work together toward the realisation of the Okun extraction’s governorship ambition,” he said, adding that timing, strategy, and partnerships must be carefully considered. “We cannot achieve this goal alone. Collaboration is better than working in isolation.”
Chief Asaje emphasized that Okun Nation must be perceived as a strong and serious political axis—one that would be difficult to ignore, challenge, or defeat. He warned that internal divisions could weaken the chances of success, urging Okun leaders to resolve disagreements internally and present a united front.
He also called for continued support for Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, noting that the governor is currently focused on governance, implementing policies, and delivering democratic dividends to the people of Kogi State.
“We are not God; if it is God’s will, the path will be smooth for an Okun man after Governor Ododo’s second term. But disunity can derail our chances,” he cautioned.
Chief Asaje concluded with a rallying call for unity, strategic cooperation, and patience, declaring, “After Ododo, Okun lokan.”
Signed:
Secretary,”Like Minds Alliance Pressure Group”
