In the high-stakes theater of Kogi State politics, unity is a prized currency, and friction is an easy commodity to sell. Recently, self-styled political brokers have attempted to manufacture a rift where none exists, twisting a standard community address into a narrative of division.
At the center of this manufactured storm is Hon. Funsho Olumoko, whose recent speech at the Palace of the Ohimege Igu in Kotonkarfe was quickly weaponized by commentators. The target of their speculative ire? Hon. James Abiodun Faleke.
However, a sober analysis of the facts reveals that the alleged animosity is entirely fictional—a classic case of political merchants attempting to profit from chaos.
For anyone who has actually viewed the video of Hon. Olumoko’s speech at Kotonkarfe, the attempt to frame it as an attack on Hon. Faleke is not just a stretch—it is deliberately mischievous.
The visit to the royal father was rooted in a transparent, long-term strategic vision: strengthening the historic partnership between Kogi Central and Kogi West. The objective is clear and legitimate: securing the actualization of a Kogi West governor once the current administration concludes its mandate.
Airing a political vision for one’s region is not an offense; it is the cornerstone of democratic engagement. Those holding contrary views have every right to debate the strategy, but they do not have the right to invent a feud to derail it.
The bond between Hon. James Abiodun Faleke and Hon. Funsho Olumoko is one of brotherhood, not bitterness. The narrative that the two are working at cross-purposes collapses under the weight of verifiable facts:
- Hon. Faleke has stated publicly and repeatedly to the world that he is not contesting the Kogi governorship.
- Far from playing the role of a spoiler, Hon. Faleke continues to extend tremendous, unwavering support to the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo.
- Both leaders remain aligned on the broader progress of the state, harboring zero animosity toward one another.
Kogi West has frequently been saddled with unnecessary political drama, often orchestrated by middlemen who thrive on discord. When there is no real crisis, these merchants of chaos invent one to maintain their own relevance.
Linking Hon. Faleke to a standard political speech in Kotonkarfe is a desperate attempt to create a rift where there is only brotherhood. The Okun nation and the broader Kogi electorate deserve better than manufactured friction.
It is time to ignore the noise, reject the drama, and focus on the strategic partnerships that will actually move the region forward.
– Akin Oladele
For: Okun Unity Forum.
