By Abubakar Rajab
Politics, when sincerely pursued, is not merely a contest of power but a symphony of purpose — a harmony between conviction, character, and commitment to the common good. In this regard, Kogi State stands today at a historic crossroads, where the wisdom of political calculation must triumph over the recklessness of rivalry.
Hon. James Faleke has, through years of unwavering loyalty and humility, emerged as a towering colossus in our political landscape — a man whose name evokes integrity, generosity, and an unflinching devotion to human development. To describe him merely as a political figure would be to understate the depth of his virtues; he is, in truth, a factor to reckon with, a bridge between vision and reality.
My personal journey with the late Prince Abubakar Audu, may Allah have mercy on his soul, remains etched in my memory. I still recall the day the late Abdul Omakaka (of blessed memory) invited me to Prince Audu’s residence for a political gathering. I arrived late, yet providence had designed that moment to be the dawn of a remarkable connection. As I entered, the Prince, in his characteristic warmth, paused the meeting and demanded the reintroduction of every member. When it came to my turn, he rose, halted the introductions, and proclaimed, “Chief Odanwu, in all our thirty years of political brotherhood, this is your finest gift — bringing Rajab to my home!”
He embraced me tightly, chanting my name — “Rajab, Rajab, Rajab!” — before making a solemn vow: “Rajab, I will make you better than you have ever been.” Those words remain the compass of my political odyssey. On another occasion, when we visited the Ohinoyi’s Palace in Okene, Prince Audu personally introduced me to Hon. James Faleke, the beginning of a cordial relationship built on mutual respect and shared vision.
Our joy was, however, tragically interrupted by the untimely demise of Prince Audu — a moment that altered the political destiny of our dear state. The emergence of Alhaji Yahaya Bello was, without doubt, an act of divine ordainment. Though we mourned the loss of our leader, we submitted to the will of Almighty Allah, for “Verily, with hardship comes ease.”
Today, Hon. Faleke stands magnificently elevated by God Almighty — a respected statesman, a loyal ally of the President, and the distinguished Chairman of one of the most strategic committees in the National Assembly. Similarly, Alhaji Usman Ododo, our incumbent Governor, has displayed an uncommon passion for governance rooted in compassion and inclusivity.
In the architecture of progress, these two figures represent twin pillars upon which Kogi’s prosperity can be built. To set them against each other is to pit the right hand against the left — a folly that benefits none. As the Yoruba adage says, “Two strong trees in harmony make a forest unshaken by the storm.”
I remember vividly a conversation in which Hon. Faleke expressed admiration for Governor Ododo’s leadership style, describing it as “governance with a human face.” That singular statement deepened my respect for him, revealing the humility and magnanimity of a man who celebrates others rather than competes with them.
My connection with Hon. Faleke precedes the present generation of politics. In 2010, I spoke with him through his sister, who then resided in the United States. When she visited Dubai for vacation, she introduced me to him over the phone, and we spoke extensively about his political ambitions and his dreams for Nigeria. Coincidentally, we both lived in the Magodo Estate in Lagos, where I owned a popular eatery well known to many dignitaries, including our current President. Those who remember those days will recall that Faleke’s generosity was legendary — a man whose benevolence transcended geography, whose influence stretched from the vibrant streets of Lagos to the tranquil plains of Kogi.
But let me be clear: our current priority should not be to drag Hon. Faleke into the gubernatorial trenches of Kogi State. Rather, we must leverage his unparalleled proximity to President Ahmed Bola Tinubu to secure monumental projects that will redefine our economic destiny — projects such as the dredging of the River Niger, the establishment of a functional port in Lokoja, and the completion of the Ajaokuta Steel Company.
These are not mere infrastructural pursuits; they are legacies of transformation that would inscribe Faleke’s name in the annals of national history. As it is written, “The wise man plants trees whose shade he will never sit under.”
At this juncture, Kogi State is doubly blessed — with a Governor who governs with empathy and a legislator whose reach extends to the very heart of the Federal power structure. To lose either of them through political mischief or petty rivalry would be to mortgage the future of our state.
Let us, therefore, pray for Governor Ododo’s success, that he may consolidate peace and progress in our land; and pray for Hon. James Faleke, that his influence at the center may yield enduring dividends for our people.
To those who seek to sow discord, I say this: You cannot have two golden treasures and seek to discard one without plunging yourself into darkness. Instead of competing, let them complement; instead of division, let there be synergy.
In the spirit of unity and progress, may Almighty Allah guide Governor Usman Ododo and Hon. James Faleke, and may He use them as instruments to uplift Kogi State and her resilient people.
Amin.