The people of Okunland find themselves at a pivotal juncture as they prepare for the upcoming local government elections on October 19th in Kogi State.
The collective aspiration for authentic and effective leadership has never been more pressing. Okun people yearns at this crucial moment for Local Government Chairmen who will genuinely represent our Okun interests, feelings, sensibilities, and aspirations across the six Local Governments in the West Senatorial Districts.
It is imperative that we prioritize our efforts on the choice persons who are wholly committed to the welfare of the Okun people. The next Chairmen that will emerge should be those who demonstrate genuine dedication to the unique needs of Okunland, resisting the allure of personal interests, arrogant and self conceited, with lack of respect for our traditional institutions, lack of reference for Okun leaders and elders but rather places their loyalties on external interests that detract from Okunland’s progress.
Only candidates with proven integrity and a strong track record of love for Okunland and Okun people, modest in character and accountable should be voted for as Chairman come October 19, across Okunland.
The expectations of Okun people this time should be explicitly clear and spelt out unambiguously. The would be Chairmen must work with the the Okun Development Association (ODA) and all other socio cultural associations across the land to articulate a compelling vision for the growth and development of Okunland in all human endeavor.
For emphasis, our collective support should be reserved for those people embodying humility, collaboration, and a deep sense of respect for Okun people and Okunland. This collaborative Spirit will be instrumental in addressing the challenges Okunland face and seizing opportunities for growth and Development.
They should collectively aim at working out policies that fosters strong unity, oneness and inclusivity among Okunland and their Local Government towards enhancing the bond that holds Okun together as a people. Those who fail to do so will never reflect the values we hold dear and should not be entrusted with our mandate this time.
It is essential for us to engage now in the election process meaningfully. Our ideal personalities should be those with proven capacity to actively encourage community participation, galvanizing Okun people to take a stand in selecting credible leaders who mirrors Okun values, sensibilities and aspirations.
Leadership in Okunland should begin to resonate with the voice of the people, making a shift towards a more democratic and engaged governance.
Okun must ensure this time that they entrust power in the hands of those that will ensure that their cultural identity and heritage are preserved and promoted. Persons who respects and uphold the traditions of the Okun people will always play a vital role in shaping our representation in the broader context of not just across Okunland but also in Kogi State and Nigeria as a whole.
As the people of Okunland, we must unite in our search of leaders who reflects the principles and values we cherish. Together, we must galvanize our support for Okun sons and daughters who are dedicated to serving the interests of Okun people first and foremost.
We must begin now, make our voices heard and elect Chairmen who will truly champion the cause of our beloved Okunland going forward.
– Musa Bakare is the Coordinator of Okun PARAPO.
