While many are looking at it as some sort of joke, it is very real. I’m talking about the situation in my state, Kogi, where a tragi-comedy is playing out this very moment. I’m the first to admit that Governor Ahmed Wada’s administration is struggling to provide what it should, but more on that in a bit. But what kind of joke taken too far would see Prince Abubakar Audu, one-time emperor of Kogi, attempt to come back as governor a third time? Certainly not a funny joke.
Surprisingly, the APC fielded Audu, even with obvious, glaring flaws that typified his “rule” in the past. Yes, he built universities, but he named them after himself. Hotels? Not much there. How about real infrastructure which people truly need? I can’t say much either. The thing with Audu, is his politics is that of spectacle, drama and film tricks, so to speak. I’m an ordinary, apolitical citizen of Kogi State, so I won’t go into harsh specifics. All I can say is I won’t vote for Audu and the reasons will follow soon.
I mentioned ego, pride and a penchant for glitz as some of the reasons I won’t vote for Audu, and I’m sure many a Kogilite would agree. I will proceed to say why I will go in the direction of our current captain, Wada. He has for all these years been grappling with limited funds and a massive population of civil servants whose salaries need to be paid, but he has soldiered on, managing to tar rural roads and build or refurbish much-needed schools and even hospitals. I repeat: I’m no politician, and my job makes me traverse all the corners of the state, even riverine ones and I have seen with my eyes the progress which my people are enjoying.
One other thing I’ll ever remain grateful to Governor Wada for, is the near-total eradication of violence – especially in politics – which our dear state has unfortunately become known for. In the past, almost every day would see headlines regaling Nigerians with tales of killings, maiming and intimidation, among others. But now, everywhere is calm and peaceful, making it conducive for businesses, social life and more to thrive.
To my dear Kogi brothers, I’ll say this: If you yearn for a return to the past, a rulership of oppression, empty spectacle, boastfulness without action, pointless political vendetta and violence, then you know where to cast your vote. However, if you want refined, educated, gentlemanly and dedicated stewardship, you also know where to cast your vote for such a captain to steer our great ship. Like I said earlier, I’m not a politician, but a simple, humble citizen who only yearns for the good things Kogi is currently enjoying, to continue. Third time, in this case, would certainly not be the charm.
Dekina wrote in from Lokoja (ahmaddjango11@hotmail.com)
