A large gathering of youths from across Okunland attended a political rally organised by the Okun Youth Alliance (OYA) Movement in Isanlu, Yagba East Local Government Area of Kogi State. The event, tagged the OYA 2027 Election Endorsement Rally, provided a platform for the youths to articulate their views on the 2027 elections and governance at both federal and state levels. The rally was held at the 1,500-capacity GYB Civic Centre.
Convener of the OYA Movement, Hon. Oladele John NIHI, addressed the gathering, citing the administration's interventions in Kogi State, particularly in the Okun axis, as the basis for the endorsement of President Tinubu. NIHI mentioned infrastructure development and appointments of Kogi and Okun indigenes into strategic positions within the Federal Government. These appointments include the Chairman of INEC, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, and Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Ajaokuta Steel Company.
According to NIHI, the appointments demonstrate increased inclusion of Okun people in national governance under the Tinubu administration. The OYA Convener also announced the group's endorsement of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for a second term, citing the governor's performance and development initiatives across Kogi State. NIHI said sustained leadership would enable ongoing programmes and development initiatives to receive further attention.
NIHI urged Okun youths to remain actively engaged in governance and political processes, stressing that young people should not only participate during elections but also contribute to shaping policies and determining developmental priorities. The rally featured speeches and solidarity messages from youth leaders and stakeholders from across Okunland. The organisers described the gathering as a demonstration of growing political consciousness and mobilisation of Okun youths ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The endorsement places the OYA Movement among youth groups that have publicly declared support for the continuity of the Tinubu administration at the federal level and the Ododo administration in Kogi State. This development comes as various groups and stakeholders begin to articulate their positions on the 2027 elections. The OYA Movement's endorsement is seen as a significant show of support for the two leaders.
The rally was attended by a large gathering of youths, with participants filling the venue and spilling into adjoining streets. This turnout demonstrates the level of interest and enthusiasm among Okun youths for the 2027 elections and the future of governance in their region. The event provided a platform for youths to engage with leaders and stakeholders on issues that affect their communities.
The OYA Movement's endorsement of President Tinubu and Governor Ododo for second terms in office reflects the group's confidence in their leadership and vision for the region. The movement's convener, Hon. Oladele John NIHI, has called on Okun youths to remain actively engaged in governance and political processes. The group's endorsement is expected to have a significant impact on the 2027 elections in Kogi State and at the federal level.
Key points
- Okun youths endorse President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, for second terms in office.
