The National Assembly chamber is a place where the interests of constituencies are protected and presented. It is where the challenges faced by constituents are tabled by their representatives, with the expectation that solutions will be provided, depending on how well those issues are presented and pursued.
These considerations, among others, were the reasons I initially did not want Hon. Ozigi Muhammad Tijani to win the election. Knowing the kind of person he is, quiet, always smiling, rarely engaging in arguments, I doubted his ability to effectively represent his constituency. Because of this belief, I deliberately returned home during the election period to convince my community not to vote for him.
However, he has proven all my assertions wrong.
He has shown that one does not need to be talkative to attract solutions to the challenges facing one’s constituents. What truly matters is knowing when, how, and where to present a case.
I personally witnessed his impact during my visit home during the festive period. When I asked who fixed the Ageva Waterworks and who facilitated the tarring of the road in my community, I was confidently told it was Hon. Ozigi Muhammad Tijani. When I asked who provided the transformer at Ageva, his name was mentioned again.
While attending the masquerade display during the late Ohinoyi Ozube’s burial, I saw renovated school blocks at the makaranta, wearing a new look, with his name clearly displayed on the signpost as the facilitator. I saw a hospital under construction by him at Obehira Uvete.
Before the end of last December, I noticed groups of women and men heading to Okengwe. When I asked what they were going for, I was told they were attending an empowerment programme organized by Hon. TAO. They were trained in various skills, issued certificates, and supported with cash to kick-start the businesses they were trained for.
To be candid, I have witnessed many representatives who tried in their own capacities, but my community has never experienced this level of support from any of them.
Although I never expected anything from him, he has proven me wrong in every respect. He provided water, electricity, education, and empowerment. What more should I expect from him before offering my full support, unless I am driven by personal interest?
To Hon. Ozigi Muhammad Tijani, thank you for proving me wrong. If God spares my life and grants me good health to witness the next election, I will support you with my resources. You deserve all the necessary support to encourage others, showing them that the people will willingly and effortlessly support leaders who do the right things.
The reward for good work is more work. We look forward to seeing you in the next election.
– Dr. Engr. Abdullahi Suleiman
