Dr Obaje has raised concerns over the political undercurrents surrounding the contest for the Kogi East Senatorial seat, warning that the ongoing tension in the district is tied to broader calculations ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Kogi State.
The Dr. made the remarks during a public lecture delivered at an Igala Sallah get-together in Anyigba, where he addressed political stakeholders, youths, community leaders, and members of the Igala nation on the future of Kogi East politics.
Describing politics as “a very deep, cunning and deceptive game,” Professor Imaye said many people may not easily understand the hidden motives behind the struggle over who emerges as senator to represent Kogi East.
According to him, the battle goes beyond personal rivalry or ordinary political competition, stressing that the issue is closely linked to national political alliances and their possible influence on the 2027 governorship race in the state.
He alleged that if many Igala people understood the deeper interests and long-term political calculations behind what he described as attempts by the state government to impose “a stooge first timer,” their views on the matter would likely change.
Dr. Obaje cautioned against reducing the political debate to loyalty toward individuals, including leading contenders such as Echocho and Erico, noting that actions and decisions taken today could have lasting consequences for Kogi East and future generations.
He warned that political decisions made without strategic thinking could weaken the collective bargaining power and political relevance of the Igala people in future negotiations within the state.
The university don also expressed concern over what he termed the growing culture of divide-and-rule politics in Kogi State. According to him, certain political interests, particularly minority groups occupying positions of influence, are allegedly deploying different tactics under the umbrella of “Party” and “System” to weaken the majority.
He further claimed that religious sentiments, regional interests, ethnic rivalry, and other divisive narratives were being deliberately introduced into the political space to create confusion and disunity among the people of Kogi East.
“These tactics are carefully designed to divide the people against themselves while a few political interests continue to benefit from the confusion,” he stated.
Dr. Obaje urged the Igala nation to remain vigilant, politically conscious, and united in the face of what he described as manipulation and hidden political agendas.
He emphasized that unity, strategic political thinking, and the protection of collective interests must take precedence over emotional politics, temporary gains, and personal sentiments.
The Dr. also called on youths, elders, opinion leaders, and political stakeholders across Kogi East to reject divisive politics and work toward preserving the dignity, political relevance, and future of the Igala people within the broader political structure of Kogi State and Nigeria.
Concluding his lecture, Dr Obaje said history has repeatedly shown that disunity often weakens majority populations, while organized minority interests continue to consolidate power through strategy and coordination.
He appealed to the people of Kogi East to rise above division, understand the bigger political picture, and safeguard the future of coming generations through unity, wisdom, and political awareness.
