James Abiodun Faleke: And The Long And Steady Walk To Destiny

At first, he was hit by the sudden death of Abubakar Audu, who was minutes away from a governorship victory. Again, he was poked by legal luminaries who described the situation as "lacuna," bringing the wonderful plans and ideas of the joint ticket to a halt as the decision of his political party regns supreme.

This, by divine providence, marked the beginning of an era that brought unprecedented pain to the inhabitants of the state. A direct opposite of the dreams Audu/Faleke had before marching to the polls in 2015.

In all these, the doggedness, resiliency, and, most importantly, the commitment of the master strategist to actualize the political dream of his political godfather beat my imagination. In an intriguing fashion, he demonstrated, in every sense, the art and mastery of political perfection across the six geopolitical zones of the federation.

He now controls, in large measure, the system that once denied him the highest political office in Kogi State, sitting comfortably in a pole position to determine and/or lobby for how power spheres in the state

James Abiodun Faleke, who was instrumental in Bola Ahmed Tinubu's victory at the polls a couple of months ago, now wields unimaginable power in the current politics of Nigeria. He will, by virtue of the paradigm shift, determine who becomes what in the next political dispensation, especially in Kogi State.

He didn't just arrive there; he endured pain and shame. He remained true to his subordinates as he refused to compromise his principles for a "quid pro quo. He now enjoys the reward for steadfastness and dedication, and there's a lesson to be learned.

I see no spark of skepticism in his leadership prowess. He will restructure, reconcile, and, most importantly, deodorize the system functions that appeared lopsided in previous years.

This will, by all standards, in any form or shape, mark the beginning of a new breath in kogi APC as James Abiodun Faleke stamps authority in kogi politics.

Samuel Mona Endurance

samuelendurance1999@gmail.com

Hon. Leke Abejide Paid Visit To The Bishop of Catholic Dioseces of Lokoja.

 

The African Democratic Congress ADC governorship candidate in Kogi State, Hon. Leke Abejide paid the Bishop of Lokoja Diocese the visit to familiarize with him and also express his intent of becoming the next governor of Kogi State come November, 2023.  

In the courtesy visit with Hon. Leke Abejide were, Barr. Shola Ojo, Dr. Bolu Femi, Dr Femi Klimsman and the State Chairman of ADC Mr. John Adaji. 

Abejide met with Most Revd.Martin Dada Abejide Olorunmolu, Catholic Bishop of Lokoja Diocese who he described as a man after God's own heart, who has dedicated his life to the service of God and mankind, and Chancellor  Fr. Okafor through a meeting conveyed by Catholic Social Forum  coordinator Mr Adeyemi Dare Michael.  

Abejide in his remarks acknowledged the good works of the Most Rev.Bishop of the Diocese and his commitment to the services of God. 

Fr. Okafor received Hon. Leke Abejide stating that even though this is the first time the Diocese is meeting with him, a lot have been heard and said about him, especially what he has been doing for the people of Yagba Federal Constituency and how he has contributed immensely to development, although I have to say this, Catholic Diocese is a Church of God that is not political, we embrace everyone as much as that you are an exceptional man and the Bishop is delighted to meet you. 

He describe Abejide as a leader whose vision is broad and whose hands are large enough to embrace everybody.

The Most Revd.Martin Dada Abejide Olorunmolu, said during the courtesy visit that most of the things being said of Hon. Abejide were all interesting things that a good Christian should poses and he is most delighted to meet him, importantly he heard of the WAEC payment and how he has promised to extend it to all the public secondary schools in Kogi State. 

The Most Reverend Bishop agreed with CFS Coordinator Mr. Adeyemi Dare Micheal, who  described the ADC governorship candidate as a "White Angel" that stands for Purity, sent by God to deliver and rescue the people of Kogi State. 

The Bishop stated that in Catholic Diocese the Church as always remain neutral when it comes to politics but  give avenue for politicians to come around. 

"It is our tradition to meet, interact, pray always that God will bring someone that will lead the good people of Kogi State to that prosperous promise land and to also express solidarity with ourselves and those who are ready to serve the interest of the masses. We are the voice of the people. Our voice is a prophetic voice. When we see where things are good, we say it exactly the way it is and where things are bad, we say it so also. 

"It is part of our prayer that God should give the state a governor that will serve in the interest of all in fairness irrespective of religion and ethnicity, a man that will be for all both Christians and Muslims including people who don't have believes, we know that God has raise your to deliver this generation". He said. 

Hon. Abejide, received prayers from the Most Revd. Bishop while Barr. Shola Ojo the Director of Campaign Leke/Omede for Governor 2023 in his remarks thanked the Most Revd. Bishop of the Diocese and Fr. Okafor for their warm welcome and for standing by the people of the state through thick and thin, stating that the Leke/Omede team are the ones God has sent and he desires the support of the Church and prayer for them to win and restructure Kogi State.

PRESIDENT TINUBU RECEIVES LEKE ABEJIDE, OKUN LEADERS AT STATE HOUSE.

…PROMISES TO LOOK INTO COMPLAINTS OF MARGINALISATION

President Tinubu on Thursday received Elder Leke Abejide, the candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and leaders of Okun Development Association, the apex Socio-Political group of Okunland in Kogi West Senatorial District.

President Bola Tinubu has called on the people of Kogi West Senatorial District to maintain peace and unity ahead of the forthcoming gubernatorial elections in the State.

Speaking at a meeting, Elder Leke Abejide with leaders of Okun Development Association, led by Professor Micheal Ikupolati, at the Presidential Villa on Thursday, the President assured Okun people of his commitment to look into their concerns regarding marginalization and the need for fair representation in governance of their state.

The statement released by Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President (Media & Publicity) said the Okun People apex leadership expressed their unwavering support for the Tinubu administration and requested the President's backing for Kogi West Senatorial District to have an opportunity to produce the next Governor of the state.

They emphasized that this would be the first time the district will have a chance to produce the governor in 27 years since the state's creation in 1991.

Responding to their appeal, the President told the delegation:

‘‘Democracy is about horse trading, numbers, about conflicts and conflict resolution. I appreciate your leadership and your position. One of your sons, James Faleke, has worked very closely with me and I know about the issue when late Prince Audu was alive.

‘‘But that was the way of God Almighty. He passed on and the arrangement didn’t work and there was a judgement from the Supreme Court that was the last bus stop. That brought about the present government in the State, who is also a member of our party.’’

Regarding the issue of power rotation and constitutional provisions to guarantee equal rights for all Senatorial Districts, the President said he would thoroughly examine the matter of fair representation they brought to his attention.

He recalled the agreement on power rotation made by late Prince Abubakar Audu and other leaders but acknowledged that unforeseen events can impact such arrangements.

‘‘When you talk about domination, I’ll have to dig deeper on the issues. Yes, the question of rotation was agreed by Prince Audu and some other leaders but death didn’t allow him. God Almighty knows the reasons and we cannot question him,’’ he said.

President Tinubu assured the group that having listened carefully to all their concerns on issues surrounding the elections in November, ‘‘he would look into the issues very carefully to ensure fairness, justice and equity but democracy is still a game of number.’’

He charged them to extend love to one another, be patient and show solidarity to other members of the Senatorial districts in the State. 

Prof. Ikupolati had appealed to the President to intervene by directing security agencies to ensure a fair and peaceful election process during the elections scheduled for November 11, 2023.

Additionally, the group requested the enforcement of the use of Biometric Voter Authentication System (BVAS) in the upcoming election in Kogi State.

The Kogi West Senatorial District Leader of Thought highlighted that their appeal for power shift to the Kogi West Senatorial District is a reflection of the region's historical support for other districts in the past.

Unity Campaign Network 4 Leke/Omede Urges NAOS/NAKOSS FUL To Support Rt. Hon. Leke Abejide As Kogi State Governor Come November election

Unity Campaign Network For Leke/Omede under the leadership of Engr. Ashiru Oluwasegun has urged students of National Association of Okun Student (NAOS) and the Executive Members of National Association of Kogi State Student (NAKOSS) Federal University Lokoja (FUL) chapter to give their supports to Rt. Hon. Leke Abejide as governor of Kogi State come November 11, 2023 for his numerous physical development before and after his emergence as reps member representing Yagba federal constituency since 2019.

The representatives of the group made the appeal yesterday, Friday 14th, 2023 during their visit to the students at the Adankolo Campus of the school.

As part of their campaign activities, which involves direct interface and discussion with the students and voters across Kogi State  used the opportunity to reel out the physical intervention and projects of the governorship candidate of African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a reps member representing the good people of Yagba federal constituency

The group representatives highlighted some of the key projects started and completed by the Elder Leke Abejide in time past which includes payment of WAEC fees for Yagba students both in private & public school of the federal constituency which he has extended it to the public schools in Kabba-Bunu/Ijumu federal constituency and presently promising to extend it to every local government of the state, educational infrastructure, such as building of 300 capacity ICT center in Isanlu and other amenities within the state and beyond.

The group note that Rt. Hon. Leke Abejide has demonstrated his commitment to the constituents with his outstanding achievements that have helped the society to grow.

The group appeals to students to send a strong message that hard work and excellent performance matter by electing Leke/Omede as Kogi State governor and deputy governor respectively on November 11, 2023 so that Kogites can enjoy full dividends of democracy.

Speaking on behalf of  Okun students Comr. Ajayi Kolawole David says that he can attest to the good deeds of Elder Leke Abejide and his numerous positive impact for the student's, pledged allegiance and total support for the mandate of Leke/Omede.

Also speaking is the NAKOSS President, Comr. Alhasan Nuhu who harps on his hearing of the good work of Elder Leke Abejide in Kogi West, he assured the students that Abejide will extend such gestures to other part of the state if giving the mandate to govern the state, he appreciates the team for the visit and pray that God will grant their heart desires.

© Unity Campaign Network 4 Leke/Omede Media Unit

Better Kogi Initiative 4 Ododo visit Obaro, Seeks Royal Blessings, hints on Medical outreach

Ahead of the November 11 Governorship election in Kogi State, The Frontline Group Better Kogi Initiative for Ododo paid a visit to the Obaro of Kabba seek his Royal blessings and intimate him of the groups plan as the group commence its activities of going round the length and breath of Kabba, Okun and Kogi at large

At the palace the State Coordinator, Comr Tosin Tafu noted with emphasy that APC remain the party to follow now, pointing out that the establishment of Kogi State University, Kabba is more than enough reason to go with the APC, that those who think he will regret his association with APC has been disappointed as the university is more tangible than any other thing.

He said the group which comprises of prominent personalities with proven integrity and love for the community are out to support APC for the overall interest of the people, as the idea of Okun for Governor can be now or later and not now or never, stressing that he strongly believes that very soon it will be the turn of Okun land to be in Lugard house.

In his reaction, the Paramount ruler of Oweland, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Solomon Dele Owoniyi, the Obaro of Kabba and Chairman, Okun Area Traditional Council commended the group for a job well done, 

The Monarch commended the group for their foresight to assemble themselves in a manner that will preach the message of unity among Okun people, stressing that it is high time for the people of the zone irrespective of their class and location to unite for the purpose of the development of the area.

Signed;

Tosin Tafu

State Coordinator

High Court Judgement: DG Better Kogi Initiative for Ododo, Congratulates APC, Ododo

The Director General, Better Kogi Initiative for Ododo  Dr Tosin Tafu has congratulated the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the party’s candidate in the November 11 gubernatorial election, Alhaji Ododo Usman Ahmed over Wednesday’s High Court pronouncement which affirmed his candidature.

 He said the High Court Judgement which dismissed a case filed against Alhaji Ododo by the immediate past Senator for Kogi West Senatorial District, Smart Adeyemi, challenging his emergence in the April 14th 2023 primary election as apt.

The DG said the party needs unity of purpose and direction and urged all stakeholders to join hands with the candidate to ensure sound victory for the party during the governorship election.

The DG noted in the statement that Governor Yahaya Bello has done a lot for the state over the seven and a half years of his leadership and enjoined citizens to give massive support to the party to ensure sustained dividends of democracy.

He noted that the APC does not need what he described as ‘frivolous judicial challenges’ within its ranks at the moment, and assured that the party would ‘sweep it clean’ during the election irrespective of the seeming obstacles being raised against it by some individuals and groups.

The DG enjoined politicians not to overheat the polity, and that they should allow democratic governance thrive in the state, stressing that Kogi State cannot afford to fall to any of the opposition parties because the state is already in the mainstream of the country’s political landscape.

He stressed that “No genuine member of Kogi State APC would use any frivolous case to distract our candidate at this critical point. Anyone that genuinely has the interest of the party at heart must allow the reconciliation mechanism of the party to work in bringing everyone that has any grudges against our candidate under the same roof to discuss and come to agreement.

 *Signed,

 Tosin Tafu

State Coordinator*

Kogi Guber race: Better Kogi Initiative For Ododo Set To Embark On High Impact Program - State Coordinator

The State Coordinator for Ododo, Comr Tosin Tafu, has disclosed that the campaign group has put in place plan to embark on Programs and initiative that will positively impact the lives of the electorate and woo the electorate to vote for our candidate.

He said the campaign concepts have been discussed and approved by the Grand Patron and Patrons of the group.

.He emphasized that the campaign period is an opportunity to improve on the lives of the people, Propagate the candidate’s plans, present blueprints, listen to the concerns of the masses, and provide them with hope and reasons to support the candidate and the Party All Progressives Congress (APC) towards a prosperous and Better Kogi.

Better Kogi Initiative“for the APC governorship candidate, Alh. Ododo Ahmed Usman (OAU) and his running mate, Comrade Joel Oyibo Salifu (JOS) aim to make a substantial difference by taking necessary actions that will culminate to a resounding Success come November 11

Better Kogi Initiative, has consistently supported endeavors that enhance the lives of the people and has pledged to provide the necessary support to achieve the campaign movement’s objectives. He encourages teamwork and collaboration for the progress and interests of Kogi State and our great party, APC.

“Alh. Ododo Ahmed Usman, as a competent successor, is determined to take Kogi State to greater heights,” he said.

Tosin expressed his familiarity with the accomplishments of the present administration led by Governor Yahaya Bello for almost eight years in office.

He said the focus of Ododo’s campaign will be to build upon the remarkable achievements of Governor Yahaya Bello’s administration.

Tosin Tafu

State Coordinator

EID-EL-KABIR: ENGR. ASHIRU SEGUN, DG UNITY CAMPAIGN NETWORK 4 LEKE/OMEDE, URGED KOGITES TO PRAY FOR A BETTER & GREATER KOGI STATE, ADVISED THAT THEY SHOULD SUPPORT LEKE/OMEDE MANDATE

A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) who also double as the Founder/DG Unity Campaign Network 4 Leke/Omede, Engr. Ashiru Segun aka Unity  has called on the Muslim faithful in Kogi State to let their prayer's during the Eid-el-Kabir celebration to reflect towards a better and greater Kogi State by supporting the mandate of Leke/Omede as the next governor of the state.

Engr. Ashiru made the call during an exclusive press briefing with some pressmen on Thursday.

The DG Unity Campaign Network 4 Leke/Omede added that "it is time for Kogites to rise and vote out bad system that has been oppressing the masses and subjecting them to poverty by supporting and voting for the mandate of Rt. Hon. Leke Abejide and Dr. Omede Idris as the next governor of the confluence state come November 11, 2023.

He opined that the challenges faced by the civil servants in the state will be corrected and as well as the dilapidated infrastructures in the state if by His grace Leke/Omede emerged as the occupier of Lugard House come November 11 this year.

The ADC chieftain who rejoices with the Muslim Ummah on the feast of Eid-el-Kabir prayed that Allah accepts their good deeds and sacrifices, alleviates their sufferings, and forgives their transgressions. 

On behalf of the entire member's and leader's of the Unity Campaign Network 4 Leke/Omede wishes you happy Sallah!

© Unity Campaign Network 4 Leke/Omede Media Unit

Hon. Leke Abejide distributes 50,000 palm trees and 40,000 improved cashew seedlings to farmers.

The member House of Representatives and the governorship candidate of ADC, Hon Leke Abejide flagged off the empowerment program for Farmers in Yagba Federal Constituency through Dagbolu Farms. 

The distribution of improved 50,000 palm trees and 40,000 cashew seedlings to farmers is a way of improving commercial agriculture.  

Speaking at the event the Alalu of Alu HRH, Oba Oladele Togun, shared his experience about his yield from farming, he said agriculture is the most lucrative business and as a King, he is also a farmer. 

"I planted palm trees and the product harvested so far has encouraged me to plant more," he said. 

Hon. Leke Abejide said "It is a good thing to empower people, especially through agriculture because it's an opportunity to provide food and uplift people from poverty, some may not understand it today but when they start making profits, they will figure out the advantages. 

Yagba is a shining example for other Federal constituencies to follow, this is not the first edition, but the 3rd edition. This will be replicated across the state, as it is a way of taking our people out of poverty through funding agriculture. 

"Our land is very fertile and productive I am rest assured that the palm trees and cache nurseries will do well on our soil". 

Abejide congratulated the beneficiaries of the improved seedling and advised that they should not take this opportunity for granted. 

He harped on the need for the people to engage in aggressive farming to enhance food security and add value to agricultural production for export earnings.

"Use it for the good of yourself and your family,  if you use it well we will be able to do more than this and we make it a yearly distribution to support farmers and interested individuals, I want to encourage all the beneficiaries to plant it this year so that they will continue to grow and not die". 

Hon. Abejide appreciated the initiator the Director of Dagbolu Farms, "It is her idea to claim our land from intruders. This has shown your aggressive efforts to reduce the rate of unemployment among our youths in Yagba". 

Hon. Leke Abejide officially flagged off the distribution of improved seedlings of fifty thousand (50,000)  palm trees and forty thousand (40,000) cashew to farmers and other interested individuals passionate about planting cash crops. 

Ogbeni Fadeyi Adenisinmi administered the "train the trainee agents" who will later train other interested persons from their locality on how to plant the improved seedlings satisfactorily in a manner that will bring about maximum growth and yield. 

The Director of Dagbolu Farms appreciated Hon Leke Abejide for supporting the great initiative to ensure food security and alleviate poverty. 

She stated that Dagbolu has more to offer, the vision is to expand the nurseries so that Hon. Leke would not just be known as a politician but also as an environmentalist, one who impacts people and the ecosystem.

"Our forest has been pondered through farming, especially from people that are into saw mailing cutting down trees and causing deforestation in the environment. 

Dagbolu Farms intended to do more by investing in nurseries of melanin with other cash crops. If you can not have it as a personal forest it can be an edge around your farm.

"For families collecting pea nuts from foreigners using their land in addition to what you receive as the lease on the land, people using the land can also be of help by helping to clear deliberate forests to start a family reserve that will be utilized by future generations. When travelling along Jos, Plateau state there are forest reserves that belong to the government which means families or communities can also nurture forest reserves using communal land for the purpose".

Madam Omoseke Amupitan acknowledged the efforts of Dr Olubamijoko who is currently using personal land for personal forest.

She clarified that the importance of Melanin is that after cutting them they sprout by the side, the forest should not be stripped from the people. 

"Hon. Leke is investing more in agriculture because he knows the importance and he has been proactive about it. The empowerment will be different as women will plant more palm trees to enrich their family menu". 

"Dagbolu farms have one thousand royal palms that are going to be ornamental plants to decorate our environment". 

While thanking Abejide for giving farmers and other individuals the needed support to invest in agriculture and promoting its course in Yagba Federal Constituency.

Ohimege gives royal blessings to ADC guber candidate, Leke Abejide

Kogi Guber 2023: Ohimege Says Hon.Leke Abejide is Capable; gives him  Royal Blessings. 

The African Democratic Congress ADC governorship candidate Hon. Leke Abejide with his running mate Dr. Idris Omede paid a courtesy visit to the Ohimege of Igu-Kotonkarfe His Royal Majesty (HRM) Alhaji Abdulrazak Sani Isa. 

The traditional ruler.and people of Kotonkarfe received Hon. Leke Abejide the candidate of ADC and Dr. Omede his running mate at his palace. 

The Ohimege stated that Hon. Leke Abejide is not the first candidate to come to his palace, before his visit other traditional rulers from his immediate constituency called him to notify him of his numerous achievements especially how he recently gifted all traditional rulers from his constituency SUV vehicles.

The Monarch said Hon. Leke deserves the royal blessings because he has given himself to the upliftment of royalty and has upheld the inalienable royal service of the monarch. 

"Leke Abejide capable, I see a man with the enthusiasm, a true light bearer and competence to deliver good governance". 

The Ohimege while offering his royal blessing to Hon. Leke and Dr Idris said they are being called to leadership to serve the state and in their pursuit, they should always maintain peace. 

The ADC governorship candidate Hon. Leke Abejide and Dr. Omede promised quality governance, especially by promoting Agriculture in Kotonkarfe which is the primary and major business of the people. 

Hon Leke Abejide stated that his focus is education, agriculture, and dredging the river to see that Kogi State has a mini seaport and other government responsibilities to the people of Koton will not be left out. 

"We will deliver the dividends of democracy to the people with the utmost sense of responsibility, through standard health care services, education, and promoting agriculture when elected". 

Kogi State deserves a leader dedicated to leadership and that is what Leke and Omede have brought the ideas to change the State for the better. 

According to the Hon. Leke Abejide the governorship candidate “these are not mere political promises; these are words coming from a man who is tested and proven. If I, by God’s grace can accomplish all the things I did in Yagba Federal Constituency within 4years, God will also empower me to do what is right and much more in Kogi state when elected.”

” I have been tested and never found wanting, the track records of my performance are everywhere in the in Yagba despite the fact that my detractors may want to play down on them. I am not in short supply of ability to perform if given the opportunity.”

He added, “this is no time for further experiment, we should get it right; we are running out of time, and we can’t afford to make any further mistakes. I, therefore, in all humility urge Your Majesty, Ohimege and the good people of Kotonkarfe to support Leke/Omede to win.