Analysis by Awayi Kuje
Nassarawa-Eggon, Nasarawa State – In a decisive move to protect its institutional integrity, the Eggon Cultural and Development Association (ECDA) Worldwide has publicly and formally dissociated itself from a controversial political endorsement made by one of its chapters. The association’s national leadership has declared null and void the reported endorsement of Mr. Solomon Akwashiki for the Lafia/Obi Federal Constituency seat ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The clarification was delivered by Mr. David Abuluya, President of ECDA Worldwide, during a press conference in Nassarawa-Eggon. This action underscores a critical, often-overlooked tension in Nigerian politics: the pressure on ethnic and cultural associations to engage in partisan kingmaking, and the risks such engagement poses to communal cohesion.
Anatomy of a Controversy
The controversy began on December 13, 2025, when the leadership of the ECDA’s Southern Senatorial Zone reportedly endorsed Hon. Solomon Akwashiki, the current member representing Lafia Central Constituency in the Nasarawa State House of Assembly. Such zonal endorsements are not uncommon, as they are often seen as a way to consolidate “community support” behind a single candidate, ostensibly to improve electoral chances.
However, as President Abuluya forcefully articulated, this action represented a fundamental breach of the association’s core mandate.
The Constitutional Breach and Its Implications
Abuluya anchored his nullification in the ECDA constitution, specifically citing Section 4, Subsection 1. This clause mandates the association to “promote unity, peace, understanding and a sense of belonging among the Eggon people, irrespective of status, ideology, religion or political affiliation.”
This is more than bureaucratic procedure; it is a safeguard. Endorsing one aspirant from what is likely a field of multiple qualified Eggon sons and daughters across different political parties does not promote unity—it actively sows division. It creates factions of “supported” versus “neglected” candidates and their supporters, potentially turning the cultural umbrella into a tool for political exclusion. As Abuluya stated, “The selection of candidates is the sole prerogative of political parties… It is not the business of ECDA.”
The Broader Context: Why Non-Partisanship is a Strategic Imperative
ECDA’s firm stance is a case study in the strategic importance of neutrality for community-based organizations. When such groups become perceived as an extension of a political party or a specific candidate, they risk:
- Alienating Members: Members who support other parties or candidates may disengage, weakening the association’s base and legitimacy.
- Becoming a Political Target: The association’s reputation becomes tied to the electoral fortunes and failures of its endorsed candidates.
- Eroding Long-Term Trust: Its ability to advocate for community development with whichever government is in power is compromised if it is seen as partisan.
Abuluya’s message reframed political participation correctly: “We encourage our members to participate actively in the democratic process, but to do so as individuals exercising their civil rights, not under the banner of ECDA.” This distinction is crucial for the health of both the association and the democracy.
A Warning to Chapters and a Reaffirmation of Principle
The press conference served as a direct order to all ECDA chapters, both within Nigeria and in the Diaspora, to refrain from using the platform for partisan activities. This reassertion of central authority over zonal chapters highlights the challenge of maintaining a consistent, unified stance in large, decentralized cultural organizations.
By taking this step, the ECDA national leadership is investing in its long-term role as a unifying force. It is choosing to be a platform that provides a “level playing field for all Eggon sons and daughters” rather than a kingmaker for a few. In the volatile landscape of Nigerian politics ahead of 2027, this commitment to neutrality may be its most valuable asset.
Source: NAN News. Edited by Isaac Ukpoju.
