In Nigerian politics, every competitive election inevitably has a
winner and a loser.
Typically, after Election Day, everything goes
smoothly and the loser congratulates the winner. However, that doesn’t
always happen.
Saturday’s primary election was indeed an historic one owing to its
transparency and quality of aspirants, As expected, that history gives
us many examples of contests as hotly debated, as fiercely fought,
with their own challenges to the popular will; But veteran oil magnate
Engr Olusola George Olumoroti, (OGO) to
use his acronym, has articulatedly demonstrated “Never Say Die” spirit
in the face of breach of trust by his kinsmen and loyalists, his
participation alone amid sore intimidation is heroic.
In his concession speech made public through his facebook page, he said and I
quote “The 2015 APC gubernatorial primaries
have been concluded and Prince Abubakar Audu declared the winner. It
was a long and tortuous journey for me traversing the length and
breadth of Kogi State. Our campaign strategy was well- organized,
aggressive and issued based, we presented to the delegates a robust
blueprint on how the economy of the state would be transformed, with
particular reference to industrialization and job creation, youth
empowerment, and affordable quality education. The experience was
worth the while but the delegates have spoken loudly of their
preference, and I accept the result and hereby congratulates the
winner.” apparently a dauntless display of sportmanship commendable.
I know that many of our fellow power shift crusaders are disappointed. I am, too. But our disappointment must be overcome by our love of
state. And I say to members of our community at large, let no one see
this contest as a sign of weakness from the West or Central. The
strength of Kogi democracy is shown most clearly through the
difficulties it can overcome. Kogi is for all. Just as we fight hard
when the stakes are high, we close ranks and come together when the
contest is done.
And while there will be time enough to debate our
continuing differences, now is the time to recognize that that which
unites us is greater than that which divides us. While we yet hold and
do not yield our opposing beliefs, there is a higher duty than the one
we owe to political party, interest and movements. We are indeed happy
to note that OGO have clearly written his name in Gold as we urge him
to continue in that manner in making Okun nation and Owe land envy of
all. Today, I make bold to say that, He,Engineer Olusola Olumoroti
merely lost an election but was not defeated. Better days ahead.
Balogun Emmanuel Funsho; a passionate Kogite and writing hero aspirant
writes from University Of Ilorin, Ilorin. He can be reached on
07034444976 or irule9ja@gmail.com
