By Danjuma Amodu | April 27, 2026
The Chairman of the Idris HK Foundation, Idris Husseini Kashim, on Friday formally joined the race for the Kogi East senatorial seat, declaring his intention to contest on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2027 general election.
Kashim made the declaration at a packed PDP secretariat in Sabongari, Idah, telling party leaders, stakeholders and supporters from the district’s nine local government areas that his bid was anchored on service, not personal comfort.
“I chose humanity over luxury,” he said. “Driven by patriotic duty, resourceful service and a hopeful vision for our future, I hereby declare my intention to contest the Kogi East Senatorial District seat in 2027.”
From Enterprise to Grassroots: Kashim’s Political and Philanthropic Footprint
While this is his first official bid for elective office, Kashim is a familiar figure in Kogi East politics. An entrepreneur with interests in logistics, real estate, agriculture and renewable energy, he has been a key financier and strategist for the PDP in the zone for over a decade, bankrolling mobilisation drives and sustaining party structures during opposition years.
His Idris HK Foundation, established in 2016, has since become one of the largest private intervention platforms in the district. The Foundation says it has installed 12 transformers across Dekina, Ofu and Olamaboro, deployed 85 solar street lights in rural wards, drilled 30 boreholes in riverine Ibaji and Idah, graded 22km of community access roads, and awarded over 400 secondary and tertiary scholarships. Its annual medical outreaches have provided free surgeries, eye care and maternal health support to more than 5,000 vulnerable residents.
Party officials credit the trajectory of that philanthropy for Kashim’s grassroots pull. “He built trust before politics,” said PDP Zonal Chairman Igagwu Idris. “People have seen him prioritise community interventions over an extravagant lifestyle.”
Legislative Agenda and Endorsements
Kashim said his aspiration followed months of consultations with traditional rulers, youth groups, market women and professionals. He argued that Kogi East, the state’s largest voting bloc, required “an energetic, smart, modern and compassionate voice” at the National Assembly to reverse years of under-representation.
He pledged to focus on bills that expand federal presence in education, tackle youth unemployment through agro-industrial zones, and secure funding for the Idah–Agenebode bridge and dredging of the Lower Niger. “My representation will translate policy into jobs, roads and dignity for our people,” he said.
The declaration received a boost from Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central, who described Kashim as “energetic and reliable”. She urged Kogi East voters to back the PDP to “reclaim political power in the state”, praising party leaders for keeping structures intact.
‘The Hope of Kogi East’ — Massive Turnout Heralds Declaration
The event drew thousands of supporters to Idah, with drummers, bikers and women’s groups lining the streets in PDP colours under banners proclaiming Kashim “The Hope of Kogi East”.
Following Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s visit, Hon. HK Idrisima expressed profound appreciation for the overwhelming show of support.
“Today, my heart is filled with deep gratitude for the overwhelming love, support, and solidarity shown throughout this journey,” he said.
“I extend my sincere appreciation to the distinguished Senator Natasha Akpoti, PDP stakeholders across Kogi East, and the good people of the region. Thank you for standing firm, believing in this vision, and coming out in such inspiring numbers.
“This encouragement strengthens my commitment to serve with even greater integrity, dedication, and sincerity of purpose if given the opportunity on a bigger stage.
“Together, we are building something truly remarkable.”
The Stakes in Kogi East
With nine LGAs, Kogi East holds the swing vote in state-wide elections but has been represented by the APC at the Senate since 2019.
Kashim’s entry sets up an early test of PDP’s revival strategy in the district. Political analysts say his combination of private-sector experience, foundation work and youth appeal could reshape the race if he secures the party ticket.
Other dignitaries at the event included Ibaji Local Government Chairman Ajodo Egbunu David; State Financial Secretary Idakwo Idris; Zonal Chairman Attai Achakuma; State Publicity Secretary Paul Okwenya; and Umoru Tijani Aruwa.
Kashim closed by calling for unity across political divides. “Development has no party label. Kogi East must rise together,” he said.
