2027 Politics: Olusoji Urges Okun Unity, Says Power Miscalculations Cost Zone in 2023

 

By Wilson Macaulay

LOKOJA

As political permutations and alignments ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections begin to take shape, a respected philanthropist and All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Asiwaju Olatunji Olusoji, has delivered a timely and far-reaching admonition to the people of Okunland, urging them to avoid the costly political miscalculations that weakened their position during the 2023 Kogi State governorship election.

Speaking during a media interaction in Lokoja, Olusoji stressed that the future political relevance of Okunland depends largely on unity, strategic patience, and disciplined political organization, rather than haste or internal rivalry. According to him, the lessons of 2023 must not be ignored if the zone hopes to negotiate power effectively in the coming years.

Olusoji argued that rather than dissipating energy on premature power struggles, the Okun people should begin a deliberate process of reconciliation, consensus-building, and political repositioning aimed at 2031. He maintained that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo deserves the opportunity to complete a constitutionally guaranteed two-term tenure, warning that political impatience would only further marginalize Okunland within Kogi State’s power structure.

“Politics is about timing, strategy, and unity,” Olusoji said. “What weakened Okunland in 2023 was not lack of popularity or capacity, but internal division. While other zones rallied behind single candidates, Okun leaders fielded multiple aspirants across different political parties, thereby fragmenting their own strength—even in their strongholds.”

He lamented that the absence of a unified political direction in the last governorship race led to avoidable electoral losses and diminished bargaining power, a scenario he said must not be repeated if Okunland is to reclaim its rightful place in Kogi politics.

Addressing growing speculations about his alleged political ambitions, Olusoji firmly dispelled any notion that his comments were driven by personal aspirations. He categorically stated that he has no interest in contesting for elective office, emphasizing that his long-standing commitment to the development of Okunland is purely philanthropic and community-focused.

He explained that his foundation, established more than a decade ago, has consistently delivered educational support, welfare assistance, and humanitarian interventions across virtually all communities in Okunland—long before current political conversations emerged.

“My service to humanity did not start today, and it is not tied to politics,” he noted. “It is a way of life shaped by the values my parents instilled in me. My concern is the collective progress of our people.”

Beyond Kogi State politics, Olusoji also weighed in on national issues, urging Nigerians to exercise patience and trust in the reform agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He acknowledged the current economic challenges facing the country but expressed confidence that the reforms would ultimately yield sustainable growth and long-term prosperity.

He further called on the Federal Government to intensify investments in digital, technology-driven, and intelligence-led security architecture, describing insecurity as one of Nigeria’s most urgent challenges requiring modern and proactive solutions.

According to Olusoji, a secure environment remains fundamental to economic stability, social cohesion, and national development, stressing that no reform agenda can succeed without effectively addressing the security question.

As political conversations continue to gather momentum ahead of 2027, Olusoji’s intervention stands as both a cautionary reminder and a strategic roadmap for Okunland—one anchored on unity, foresight, and the wisdom to learn from past mistakes while preparing for future opportunities.