The Movement for the Emancipation of Kogi State (MEKSTA) has cautioned traditional rulers in Okunland against allowing themselves to be used as instruments of political division ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the group alleged that some political interests were attempting to mobilize traditional rulers in Kogi West to undermine the growing support for Senator Sunday Karimi, who represents the district in the Senate.

MEKSTA urged the monarchs to emulate the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, Alhaji Ahmed Tijani Anaje, whom it praised for maintaining neutrality in political matters.

“The traditional stool demands that royals are fathers to all and not partial to some,” the group stated. “Traditional rulers must dignify their stools and refuse to be used as agents of division and destabilisation in their homeland.”

The group further alleged that Governor Ahmed Ododo had convened a meeting of traditional rulers from the six Okun-speaking local government areas as part of efforts to fuel political disaffection against Karimi. It specifically claimed that the meeting would focus on circulating allegations against the senator through a controversial video involving some chiefs from Egbe in Yagba West Local Government Area.

MEKSTA described the move as a distraction from more pressing concerns, particularly the worsening security situation in Kogi West.

“At a time when communities are grappling with kidnappings, banditry and violent attacks, the people need reassurance, unity and effective leadership, not orchestrated discord,” the statement said.

The group reaffirmed its support for Senator Karimi, describing him as “accessible, pragmatic, effective and relatable.” It argued that his performance in office and grassroots popularity were reflected in the outcome of the recent APC senatorial primary, where members reportedly renewed his mandate for another term.

“Senator Sunday Karimi remains the choice of the APC in Kogi West for the 2027 elections, and no external influence can change that,” MEKSTA declared. “Any attempt to unsettle him is an attempt to weaken the APC in the district.”

The statement was jointly signed by representatives from the federal constituencies across Kogi State, including Hon. Obafemi Medaiyese, Comrade Joseph Mebatonije, Alhaji Yusuf Kpareke, Mallam Jimoh Ozovehe, Dr. Nurudeen Adaviriku, Alhaji Isiaka Momoh, Chief Ojonimi Adegbe, Pastor Mark Onucheyo and Bishop Husseini Saidu.